Richard Steele

Definition

Richard Steele was an influential Anglo-Irish writer and politician, best known for his role in the development of the periodical essay in the early 18th century. He co-founded 'The Tatler' and 'The Spectator,' two significant publications that shaped the literary landscape of the time, blending entertainment with commentary on society and manners, which became key features of the emerging modern essay form.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Steele was born in 1672 in Dublin and was educated at Trinity College before moving to London, where he became involved in the literary scene.
2. His work often reflected a concern for social issues and the moral state of society, aiming to educate readers while entertaining them.
3. Steele's writing style was characterized by a friendly and conversational tone, making his essays approachable for a wide audience.
4. He had a significant influence on later writers and contributed to the development of satire in literature.
5. Steele's works often included fictional characters and narratives that illustrated moral lessons, making his essays both engaging and didactic.

Review Questions

• How did Richard Steele contribute to the development of the periodical essay form in the early 18th century?
  • Richard Steele played a crucial role in shaping the periodical essay form through his founding of publications like 'The Tatler' and 'The Spectator.' These works combined entertainment with social commentary and moral reflection, engaging readers with approachable language and relatable content. Steele's innovative style set a precedent for future writers and helped establish the periodical essay as a significant literary genre.
• Discuss the impact of 'The Tatler' and 'The Spectator' on English literature and society during Steele's time.
  • 'The Tatler' and 'The Spectator' significantly impacted English literature by introducing a new format that blended personal reflection with social critique. These periodicals provided readers with insights into contemporary issues while fostering public discourse. By engaging with everyday life and manners, Steele's publications helped democratize literature, making it accessible to a broader audience, which was pivotal in shaping modern journalism and literary culture.
• Evaluate how Richard Steele’s style of writing influenced later literary movements and genres beyond his lifetime.
  • Richard Steele’s conversational style and focus on social issues laid important groundwork for later literary movements such as Romanticism and Realism. His blend of personal narrative with moral exploration encouraged subsequent writers to adopt similar approaches, emphasizing character development and social critique. Additionally, Steele's emphasis on the periodical essay influenced later formats like newspapers and magazines, shaping modern literary forms that continue to explore societal themes through engaging narratives.

Related terms

The Tatler: A periodical founded by Richard Steele in 1709 that focused on news, gossip, and social commentary, marking a shift in literature towards more personal and conversational styles.

The Spectator: A daily publication co-founded by Steele and Joseph Addison in 1711, known for its essays on contemporary society, morality, and philosophy, establishing a platform for public discourse.

Periodical Essay: A short prose piece that appeared regularly in magazines or journals during the 18th century, combining elements of fiction, journalism, and moral philosophy.