2.3 Other significant Restoration poets and their works
3 min read•august 1, 2024
The Restoration period saw a diverse group of poets emerge alongside . These writers, including , , and , tackled themes from politics to love, using various styles like and .
Their work expanded the boundaries of English literature, challenging social norms and refining poetic techniques. While Dryden mastered the , others experimented with different forms, collectively shaping the future of English poetry.
Restoration Poets and Their Works
Major Poets and Their Contributions
Top images from around the web for Major Poets and Their Contributions
Percy Bysshe Shelley - Wikisource, the free online library View original
Is this image relevant?
Andrew Marvell - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Libertine - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Percy Bysshe Shelley - Wikisource, the free online library View original
Is this image relevant?
Andrew Marvell - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Major Poets and Their Contributions
Percy Bysshe Shelley - Wikisource, the free online library View original
Is this image relevant?
Andrew Marvell - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Libertine - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Percy Bysshe Shelley - Wikisource, the free online library View original
Is this image relevant?
Andrew Marvell - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
- Samuel Butler (1612-1680) wrote the satirical poem "" critiquing Puritanism and the English Civil War
- Established new standard for satirical poetry
- Influenced development of mock-heroic genre
- Andrew Marvell (1621-1678) created metaphysical poetry exploring time, love, and nature
- Notable works include "" and ""
- Bridged earlier metaphysical poets and Restoration period
- Preserved and evolved metaphysical poetic tradition
- (1647-1680) produced addressing and social critique
- Famous works include "" and ""
- Pushed boundaries of acceptable subject matter
- Influenced later writers in libertine literary tradition
Female and Lyric Poets
- Aphra Behn (1640-1689) emerged as one of the first professional female writers in English literature
- Wrote the play "" and poems like ""
- Challenged gender norms in writing profession
- Paved way for future women authors
- Expanded diversity of voices in English literature
- Edmund Waller (1606-1687) crafted lyric poetry exemplifying ' style
- Notable works include "" and ""
- Refined the heroic couplet
- Developed smoother, more polished poetic style
- Influenced evolution of English versification during Restoration
Dryden vs Other Restoration Poets
Thematic and Stylistic Comparisons
- Dryden's satirical works () parallel Butler's "Hudibras" in political commentary
- Both used satire to address contemporary politics and society
- Dryden employed heroic couplets and formal structure
- Butler utilized more varied and experimental forms
- Dryden's refined style contrasted with John Wilmot's explicit content
- Dryden focused on courtly themes and language
- Wilmot explored provocative subjects and social commentary
- Reflected different approaches to artistic expression
- Dryden emphasized classical allusions and mythological references
- Less prominent in works of poets like Aphra Behn
- Behn drew inspiration from contemporary life and personal experiences
Philosophical and Religious Themes
- Dryden's later works () explored religious and philosophical themes
- Contrasted with secular and hedonistic themes in Cavalier poets' works
- John Wilmot's poetry often focused on earthly pleasures
- Reflected diverse intellectual currents of Restoration period
- Dryden's use of heroic couplets differed from varied forms of other poets
- Andrew Marvell employed diverse metrical structures
- John Wilmot experimented with unconventional forms
- Showcased range of poetic techniques in Restoration era
Restoration Poetry's Literary Impact
Evolution of Poetic Forms and Styles
- Diversification of poetic forms reflected complex social and political landscape
- Butler's mock-heroic style in "Hudibras"
- Marvell's
- Wilmot's frank and provocative verse
- Refinement of English versification
- Waller's polished style influenced later poets
- Dryden's mastery of heroic couplet set new standards
- Contributed to development of distinctly English poetic tradition
Thematic Expansions and Social Impact
- Exploration of new themes and subject matter
- Wilmot's frank discussion of sexuality
- Behn's perspective as a female writer
- Butler's political satire
- Challenged social norms and expanded literary boundaries
- Behn's success opened doors for women writers
- Wilmot's provocative works pushed limits of acceptable content
- Butler's satire influenced political discourse
Lasting Contributions to English Literature
- Established English as capable literary language
- Expressed wide range of ideas and emotions
- Developed sophisticated poetic techniques
- Laid groundwork for future literary movements
- Influenced later writers and literary traditions
- Butler's satire impacted development of English humor
- Marvell's metaphysical style influenced Romantic poets
- Wilmot's frank style foreshadowed modern confessional poetry
Key Terms to Review (29)
A Satyr Against Reason and Mankind: A Satyr Against Reason and Mankind is a satirical poem written by the Restoration poet John Wilmot, 2nd Earl of Rochester. This work critiques the rationalism of the Enlightenment and mocks human behavior, highlighting the contrast between reason and the often irrational tendencies of mankind. The poem reflects the playful yet biting wit typical of Rochester's style, showcasing themes of morality, desire, and the nature of humanity.
Absalom and Achitophel: Absalom and Achitophel is a satirical poem written by John Dryden in 1681 that uses biblical allegory to comment on contemporary political events in England, particularly the political turmoil during the reign of King Charles II. The poem portrays the rebellion of Absalom against his father David, paralleling it with the political factions of Dryden's time, notably the conflict between royalists and those who opposed the monarchy, showcasing Dryden's mastery of political satire and poetic innovation.
Andrew Marvell: Andrew Marvell was a prominent English poet, satirist, and politician of the 17th century, often associated with the Metaphysical poets. He is well-known for his complex use of imagery and themes such as love, nature, and political commentary. His works reflect the turbulent political landscape of his time, making him a significant figure in Restoration literature and beyond.
Aphra Behn: Aphra Behn was a 17th-century English playwright, poet, and novelist, often recognized as one of the first professional female writers in England. Her work reflects the political and social shifts of the Restoration era, challenging gender norms and establishing her as a pivotal figure in the development of English literature and drama.
Cavalier Poets: Cavalier poets were a group of 17th-century English poets known for their light-hearted, elegant, and often romantic verse that celebrated the pleasures of life, love, and loyalty to the monarchy. Emerging during the English Civil War, these poets often aligned with the royalist cause and wrote in a style characterized by smooth meter, wit, and a focus on themes like carpe diem and the fleeting nature of life.
Go, Lovely Rose: 'Go, Lovely Rose' is a lyric poem by the Restoration poet Edmund Waller that expresses the theme of love and the fleeting nature of beauty. It uses the rose as a central symbol to convey a message about the urgency of love and the ephemeral quality of life, making it a quintessential example of Restoration poetry that often explored themes of romance and mortality in a playful and elegant manner.
Heroic couplet: A heroic couplet is a pair of rhymed lines of iambic pentameter, often used in English poetry to convey serious themes and ideas. This form became especially popular during the Restoration period, reflecting the political and social shifts of the time while also serving as a hallmark of neoclassical literary movements.
Hudibras: Hudibras is a satirical poem written by Samuel Butler, published in three parts between 1663 and 1678. It lampoons the Puritans and their actions during the English Civil War, using humor and verse to critique their moralism and self-righteousness. This work is significant within Restoration literature for its innovative use of the heroic couplet and its engagement with contemporary political themes.
Individualism: Individualism is a social and political philosophy that emphasizes the moral worth of the individual, advocating for personal freedom and self-reliance. This concept connects deeply to various cultural and literary movements, influencing how characters are portrayed and how narratives unfold, particularly during periods of societal transformation.
John Dryden: John Dryden was a prominent English poet, playwright, and literary critic of the late 17th century, known for his influential role in shaping Restoration literature and drama. His works introduced new poetic forms and techniques, revitalized theatrical conventions, and established significant themes in Restoration tragedy, making him a central figure in the evolution of English literature during this period.
John Wilmot, Earl of Rochester: John Wilmot, the Earl of Rochester, was a prominent 17th-century English poet and courtier known for his satirical and often controversial poetry that reflects the hedonistic lifestyle of the Restoration period. His work is characterized by its wit, use of colloquial language, and exploration of themes like sexuality, politics, and the human condition, which significantly contributed to the literary landscape of his time.
Libertine poetry: Libertine poetry is a literary genre characterized by its focus on sensuality, hedonism, and the rejection of conventional moral values, often exploring themes of sexual freedom and individualism. This type of poetry emerged prominently during the Restoration period, reflecting the era's shifting social norms and attitudes toward love, desire, and personal autonomy.
Metaphysical conceits: Metaphysical conceits are complex and often surprising metaphors or similes that make unlikely connections between seemingly unrelated things, commonly used in 17th-century poetry. These literary devices challenge readers to think deeply about the relationships between abstract concepts, emotions, and tangible objects, often revealing deeper truths about human experience. They reflect a blend of intellect and emotion, making them a hallmark of metaphysical poetry.
Metaphysical poetry: Metaphysical poetry is a genre that emerged in the 17th century characterized by its use of intricate metaphors, intellectual themes, and an exploration of complex emotional states. It often employs unconventional imagery and philosophical concepts to examine love, death, and existence, reflecting a deep engagement with the human experience. The works of metaphysical poets frequently challenge conventional poetic forms and conventions, setting them apart from their contemporaries.
Mock-heroic narrative style: Mock-heroic narrative style is a literary technique that parodies or satirizes the conventions of epic poetry by using grandiose language and elevated themes to describe trivial or mundane subjects. This style often highlights the absurdity of treating insignificant events with the same seriousness as grand heroic tales, providing a humorous contrast that invites readers to reflect on the nature of heroism and cultural values.
Neoclassicism: Neoclassicism is an artistic and literary movement that emerged in the late 17th century, emphasizing reason, order, and classical ideals derived from ancient Greek and Roman culture. This movement was characterized by its focus on clarity, harmony, restraint, and a structured approach to both art and literature, reflecting the political and social contexts of its time.
On a Girdle: 'On a Girdle' is a poem by the English poet Robert Herrick, written in the 17th century, that explores themes of love, desire, and the ephemeral nature of beauty. The poem uses the image of a girdle, or belt, to symbolize both the physical and spiritual connections between lovers, while also reflecting on the fleeting nature of life and relationships. This work is representative of the broader trends in Restoration poetry, which often emphasized wit, sensuality, and the complexities of human emotions.
Religio laici: Religio laici refers to the belief system and religious practices of laypeople, contrasting with those of the clergy. This term emphasizes the importance of faith among the general populace during a time when religious authority was often dominated by church leaders. It highlights the role of individual belief and participation in religious life, particularly in the context of the Restoration period, where such themes were prominent in literature and poetry.
Restoration England: Restoration England refers to the period in English history from 1660 to 1688, marked by the return of Charles II to the throne following the English Civil War and the Interregnum. This era is significant for its cultural revival, particularly in literature, where it saw the emergence of new styles and themes influenced by political and social changes. It set the stage for prominent writers like Jonathan Swift and Alexander Pope, as well as a flourishing of poetic forms that responded to the complexities of a restored monarchy and shifting societal norms.
Samuel Butler: Samuel Butler was an English poet, novelist, and essayist known for his satirical works and critiques of contemporary society. He is best recognized for his major poem, 'Hudibras,' which humorously critiques the Puritans and their moralistic attitudes during the English Civil War, reflecting broader Restoration themes of irony and skepticism towards authority.
Satire: Satire is a literary technique that uses humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize or mock social, political, or moral issues. It serves as a powerful tool for social commentary and is often employed to provoke thought and encourage reform by highlighting the flaws in individuals, institutions, or society as a whole.
Sexuality: Sexuality refers to the capacity for sexual feelings, the expression of sexual orientation, and the ways in which individuals experience and express their sexual identity. It encompasses a range of behaviors, cultural norms, and personal identities, influencing how people relate to one another and to society. During the Restoration period, sexuality became a subject of open discussion in literature, with poets and writers exploring themes of desire, love, and social mores.
Social Criticism: Social criticism is the act of exposing and analyzing societal issues, norms, and structures to provoke change or raise awareness. It often highlights injustices related to class, gender, politics, and morality, using various literary techniques to engage the audience in a conversation about these issues.
The Disappointment: The Disappointment is a poem by Aphra Behn, a significant work in Restoration literature that explores themes of love, betrayal, and the complexities of human desire. The poem captures the emotional turmoil of unfulfilled love through vivid imagery and stark contrasts, reflecting the disappointment often felt in romantic relationships. It reveals the tension between expectations and reality, a common motif in Restoration poetry that seeks to convey deeper truths about human nature.
The garden: In literature, 'the garden' often symbolizes an idealized space representing beauty, tranquility, and the harmony of nature. This motif appears prominently in the works of Restoration poets, who used it to reflect themes of love, desire, and the complexities of human relationships, as well as to critique societal norms and personal aspirations.
The Glorious Revolution: The Glorious Revolution was a pivotal event in 1688 when King James II of England was overthrown and replaced by William of Orange and his wife Mary II, establishing a constitutional monarchy. This revolution marked a shift in power dynamics, leading to greater parliamentary authority and the decline of absolute monarchy, which influenced the themes and stylistic features of subsequent literature, notably in Restoration literature, as writers grappled with ideas of power and governance.
The Imperfect Enjoyment: The imperfect enjoyment refers to a theme found in poetry that expresses the tension between desire and unattainable fulfillment, often highlighting the frustrations and failures inherent in human relationships and sensual experiences. This concept captures the essence of longing and the bittersweet nature of pleasure, making it a poignant topic in the works of Restoration poets who explored emotional depth and complexity.
The Rover: The Rover is a Restoration comedy play written by Aphra Behn, first performed in 1677. It showcases the themes of love, desire, and social dynamics within a lively setting of carnival and revelry, highlighting the complexities of romantic pursuits and gender roles in a time of changing social norms. The play reflects Restoration literature's characteristic wit and humor, combining intricate plot structures with a focus on the misadventures of its characters, particularly exploring the dynamics between men and women.
To His Coy Mistress: 'To His Coy Mistress' is a famous poem written by Andrew Marvell in the 17th century, often classified as a carpe diem poem that encourages seizing the day and embracing love and passion. The poem's speaker tries to persuade his lover, who is hesitant about their relationship, to give in to their desires before time runs out. This poem represents the playful yet serious tone of Restoration poetry and highlights themes of love, time, and mortality.