Great Chain of Being

Definition

The Great Chain of Being is a philosophical concept that posits a strict hierarchical structure to all matter and life in the universe, suggesting that everything has its place in a divine order ranging from God at the top, down through angels, humans, animals, plants, and inanimate objects. This idea underscores the belief in a predetermined hierarchy and the interdependence of all beings, which influenced literature and thought during significant cultural movements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Chain of Being served as a framework for understanding the universe and humanity's place within it, heavily influencing literature from the late 17th to the mid-19th century.
2. It reflects a worldview that emphasizes order and stability, which was essential during times of social and political upheaval, such as the Enlightenment.
3. The concept often justified social hierarchies, including class structures and gender roles, promoting the idea that one's position in society was divinely ordained.
4. This notion was frequently challenged by emerging ideas of individualism and equality during the Romantic period, leading to shifts in literary themes.
5. Key literary works from this era often grappled with the implications of this hierarchy, portraying conflicts between human desires and societal expectations.

Review Questions

• How does the Great Chain of Being reflect societal values and beliefs during its prominence?
  • The Great Chain of Being illustrates societal values by reinforcing the idea of a divinely ordained hierarchy where each being has a specific role. This reflects broader cultural beliefs about order, morality, and authority during its time. The hierarchy justified existing social structures, including class distinctions, by suggesting they were part of a divine plan, which shaped how people viewed their relationships with others and their roles in society.
• Discuss how the Great Chain of Being influenced major literary works of the period and what themes emerged as a result.
  • Major literary works during this period often engaged with the Great Chain of Being by exploring themes such as duty, morality, and the conflict between individual desires and societal roles. For instance, many playwrights and poets depicted characters who struggled against their prescribed places within this hierarchy. The tension between personal aspirations and established norms led to rich narratives that questioned the rigidity of these societal structures while still acknowledging their influence on human behavior.
• Evaluate the impact of the Great Chain of Being on the transition from Neoclassicism to Romanticism in literature.
  • The Great Chain of Being played a crucial role in shaping literary discourse as Neoclassicism gave way to Romanticism. Neoclassical writers adhered to strict hierarchical principles, valuing reason and order reflected in their works. As Romanticism emerged, writers began to critique these hierarchical norms, emphasizing emotion, individuality, and nature instead. This transition allowed for greater exploration of personal freedom and expression while challenging established societal roles dictated by the Great Chain of Being.

Related terms

Hierarchy: A system or organization in which people or groups are ranked one above the other according to status or authority.

Natural Law: Philosophical theory suggesting that certain rights or values are inherent in human nature and can be universally understood through human reason.

Theocentrism: The belief that God is the central aspect of existence and that everything revolves around Him, influencing various fields including philosophy, literature, and science.