Augustan Age

Definition

The Augustan Age refers to a period in English literature that roughly spans from the late 17th century to the early 18th century, characterized by a focus on classical ideals, satire, and a new form of prose. This era saw the rise of the novel as a significant literary genre, where writers began to experiment with narrative techniques and character development, shaping the foundation for modern storytelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Augustan Age is often associated with significant authors such as Jonathan Swift, Alexander Pope, and Daniel Defoe, who contributed to the early development of the English novel.
2. This period emphasized clarity, order, and balance in literature, often reflecting the political and social changes occurring in England at the time.
3. The rise of periodicals and newspapers during the Augustan Age played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and fostering literary culture.
4. The novel began to emerge as a prominent literary form during this era, with works like 'Robinson Crusoe' by Defoe paving the way for future novelists.
5. The influence of classical themes and structures can be seen in the works produced during this time, as writers sought to emulate the styles of ancient Greek and Roman authors.

Review Questions

• How did the Augustan Age contribute to the development of the English novel as a distinct literary form?
  • The Augustan Age marked a significant turning point in English literature where writers began experimenting with narrative techniques and character depth. Authors like Daniel Defoe introduced more complex plots and realistic characters, which set a foundation for future novelists. This period's focus on prose fiction allowed for more extensive storytelling compared to earlier poetic forms, paving the way for novels to become a leading literary genre.
• In what ways did satire play an important role during the Augustan Age, particularly in relation to social commentary?
  • Satire was a crucial tool for writers in the Augustan Age as they used it to critique society, politics, and human behavior. Authors like Jonathan Swift employed satirical techniques to highlight social injustices and absurdities within their contemporary world. This approach not only entertained readers but also encouraged critical thinking about issues of morality and governance during a time of significant political change.
• Evaluate the impact of Neoclassicism on literature during the Augustan Age and how it influenced emerging literary forms.
  • Neoclassicism heavily influenced literature during the Augustan Age by encouraging writers to draw inspiration from classical themes and styles. This movement emphasized reason, order, and clarity in writing, which reflected societal values of the time. As authors began to blend these classical ideals with new narrative forms, they contributed significantly to the emergence of prose fiction and set standards for literary quality that would resonate through later periods.

Related terms

Satire: A literary technique that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, institutions, or societal norms.

Neoclassicism:

An artistic and literary movement that sought inspiration from the classical art and literature of ancient Greece and Rome, emphasizing reason, order, and harmony.

Prose Fiction: A form of writing that is not poetry; it includes novels and short stories, focusing on narrative and character development rather than meter and rhyme.