Cockney School

Definition

The Cockney School refers to a group of 19th-century poets and writers from London, particularly associated with the East End, who embraced the use of vernacular language and themes from working-class life in their works. This movement is characterized by its focus on urban experiences, social issues, and a distinct, often playful use of dialect, which contrasts with the more traditional styles of poetry prevalent during the Romantic period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Cockney School emerged during the early to mid-19th century and was particularly influenced by the social changes brought about by the Industrial Revolution.
2. Key figures associated with the Cockney School include poets such as Leigh Hunt and John Keats, who sought to capture the voice and experiences of the working class.
3. This literary movement was notable for its rejection of the elitist attitudes of contemporary literary circles, promoting accessibility and relatability in poetry.
4. Cockney poets often used humor and irony to address serious social issues, reflecting the resilience and creativity of the working-class community.
5. The Cockney School's influence can be seen in later literary movements that embraced realism and naturalism, which continued to explore urban life and social concerns.

Review Questions

• How did the Cockney School challenge traditional poetic forms and themes prevalent in Romantic literature?
  • The Cockney School challenged traditional poetic forms by embracing vernacular language and focusing on the experiences of the working class, rather than the elevated themes often found in Romantic literature. By using everyday speech and addressing urban life and social issues directly, these poets created a more relatable and accessible form of poetry. This shift not only broadened the scope of poetry but also encouraged other writers to explore diverse voices and experiences in their work.
• Discuss the significance of humor and irony in the works produced by members of the Cockney School.
  • Humor and irony were significant elements in the works produced by members of the Cockney School as they used these tools to comment on serious social issues while maintaining relatability for their audience. By incorporating humor, these poets could address themes like poverty and injustice without alienating their readers. Irony also allowed them to critique societal norms and expectations in a way that was engaging, making their commentary on contemporary issues both thought-provoking and entertaining.
• Evaluate how the Cockney School's focus on urban experiences contributed to the development of modern poetry and its relevance today.
  • The Cockney School's focus on urban experiences laid important groundwork for modern poetry by emphasizing authenticity and the voices of marginalized communities. Their incorporation of vernacular speech allowed for a broader representation of life that was reflective of society's diversity. This shift towards realism paved the way for future poets to explore complex themes related to identity, culture, and social issues. Today, the Cockney School's influence can still be seen in contemporary poetry that prioritizes accessibility and seeks to represent varied human experiences.

Related terms

Vernacular: The everyday language spoken by ordinary people in a particular region, often contrasted with literary or formal language.

Romanticism: An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and a connection to nature, typically found in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Social Commentary: A form of writing that critiques society and its issues, often addressing political, economic, and cultural concerns.