Neoclassical Literature Quiz & Flashcards

Questions and Answers

His poems often featured ______, rhyming couplets in iambic pentameter.

heroic

Who was the last member of the Stuart line whose death left Britain without a clear successor?

Queen Anne

Which of these words would best describe the tone of 'Rule Britannia'?

Melancholic

Neutral

Indifferent

Patriotic (correct)

Which lines in the passage explain why English scholars felt a dire need to set standards for the English language?

According to some scholars, when poorly educated people read, wrote and spoke, they corrupted the English language. There was no authority on the 'correct' way to use or spell words. Signup and view all the answers

Match the individuals with their roles:

Political Leader = Cromwell Philosopher = Adam Smith Lexicographer = Samuel Johnson Diarist = Samuel Pepys Signup and view all the answers

Which lines in the poem illustrate that death's power is an illusion?

For rest and sleep, which but thy pictures be, Much pleasure, then from thee much more must flow. One short sleep past, we wake eternally. And death shall be no more; Death, thou shalt die. Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct interpretation of this excerpt from 'To His Coy Mistress'?

The mistress's desire to preserve her honor and chastity makes no sense because her body will be devoured by worms after her death. Signup and view all the answers

When Samuel Johnson coined the term 'metaphysical poets,' what trait was he calling attention to?

The poets' fondness for abstract ideas. Signup and view all the answers

Why was the Act of Settlement passed?

To allow Protestant members of the House of Hanover to inherit the throne. Signup and view all the answers

In the above lines, the KING is praying to God to bring an end to the ______.

ongoing civil war Signup and view all the answers

How would you summarize neoclassical literature?

Writers mainly wrote poetry that was complex but rhythmic or writers usually wrote prose that was precise, effortless, and witty. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Neoclassicism Overview

Neoclassical literature emphasized structure, reason, and clarity, often utilizing poetry and prose.
The use of heroic rhyming couplets in iambic pentameter was common, particularly in satirical verses.

Key Historical Figures

Queen Anne was the last monarch of the Stuart line, leaving Britain without a clear successor after her death.
Samuel Johnson is noted for coining the term "metaphysical poets," highlighting their affinity for abstract ideas.
Notable figures during this era:
- Oliver Cromwell (Political Leader)
- Adam Smith (Philosopher)
- Samuel Johnson (Lexicographer)
- Samuel Pepys (Diarist)

Literary Themes and Techniques

"Rule Britannia" is characterized by a patriotic tone, reflecting national pride.
English scholars pursued language standardization due to concerns over the corruption of English by poorly educated speakers.
Poems often explored concepts of mortality, illustrating death's power as an illusion through imaginative comparisons (e.g., sleep and rest).

Interpretations of Works

In "To His Coy Mistress," the mistress's preoccupation with honor seems futile, given the inevitability of decay after death.
The Act of Settlement was enacted to ensure that Protestant heirs from the House of Hanover could inherit the British throne.
In neoclassical literature, writers adeptly blended complex and rhythmic poetry, as well as precise and witty prose.

Notable Phrases

Key lines reflecting death's illusion: "One short sleep past, we wake eternally."
A king's prayer aimed to cease the ongoing civil conflict, showcasing the political turbulence of the time.

Description

Test your knowledge on Neoclassicism with these flashcards. Explore key concepts, influential figures, and notable works from this literary movement. Perfect for students and enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of Neoclassicism.