Poet Laureate

Definition

A poet laureate is an official poet recognized by a government or institution, tasked with composing poems for special events and occasions. This title not only signifies a level of honor but also connects the laureate to national identity and cultural heritage, often reflecting the political and social dynamics of the time. The role has evolved through history, notably during significant periods like the Restoration and the Victorian era, where the chosen poets often became voices for their respective societies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The role of poet laureate became prominent in England during the Restoration period, with John Dryden being one of the first to hold this title in 1668.
2. As poet laureate, individuals like Alfred Lord Tennyson produced works that celebrated national events, thus intertwining poetry with public life and politics.
3. The poet laureate's position can reflect the political climate of their time, as seen in how different laureates have responded to events like wars or social change.
4. The title has been adapted in various countries, each with unique customs and expectations regarding what the poet laureate should accomplish.
5. Throughout history, some poet laureates have used their platform to critique society or challenge the status quo while still adhering to their roles as public poets.

Review Questions

• How did the role of poet laureate reflect the political and social context during the Restoration?
  • During the Restoration, the poet laureate played a significant role in shaping national identity through poetry. With John Dryden as one of the first to hold this title, his works often reflected royalist sentiments and helped solidify the monarchy’s place in society. This connection between poetry and political power highlighted how poets could influence public opinion and respond to societal issues while maintaining an official capacity.
• In what ways did Alfred Lord Tennyson's position as poet laureate influence his major works and poetic style?
  • Alfred Lord Tennyson's role as poet laureate greatly influenced his writing, as he often addressed themes relevant to national events and public sentiment. His poetic style evolved to incorporate both lyricism and grand themes, capturing the spirit of his time. For instance, works like 'In Memoriam' reflected personal loss while resonating with broader societal grief over significant events such as death and war, thereby intertwining personal narrative with national consciousness.
• Evaluate how the concept of a poet laureate has changed from Dryden’s time to Tennyson’s era and its implications for poets today.
  • The role of poet laureate has transformed significantly from Dryden's time, when it was closely tied to royal patronage and political power, to Tennyson's era, where it began to embrace broader social issues alongside national pride. Today, the implications of being a poet laureate include navigating complex societal topics while remaining relevant in a diverse cultural landscape. Contemporary poets may use their platform not only for celebration but also as a means for critique and advocacy, demonstrating how this title can adapt to reflect changing societal values.

Related terms

Court Poet: A poet who is appointed to compose poetry for a royal court, typically serving to glorify the ruler and the state.

Lyric Poetry: A type of poetry that expresses personal emotions or feelings, often written in the first person, and is characterized by its musical quality.

Cultural Nationalism: A form of nationalism in which the cultural identity of a nation is emphasized, often influencing literature, art, and poetry.