9.1 Transition from Augustan to Romantic poetry
3 min read•august 1, 2024
The transition from Augustan to Romantic poetry marked a shift in literary focus and style. Poets moved away from formal structures and societal commentary towards more personal, emotional expressions and nature-inspired themes.
This change reflected broader societal shifts, including the Industrial Revolution and political upheavals. and were key figures in this transition, blending elements of both styles in their work.
Augustan Poetry Characteristics
Formal Elements and Themes
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Eighteenth-Century Poetry Archive / Works / ENVY. A SATIRE. (Charlotte Lennox (née Ramsay)) View original
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Eighteenth-Century Poetry Archive / Works / AN ESSAY on SATIRE. (John Brown) View original
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Eighteenth-Century Poetry Archive / Works / NEWMARKET. A SATIRE. (Thomas Warton) View original
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- Emphasized order, reason, and classical forms reflecting Enlightenment ideals of early 18th century
- Employed , , and (works of and )
- Utilized wit, irony, and formal diction to address social and political issues
- Focused on clarity and precision in language
- Incorporated classical allusions and mythological references (Greek and Roman mythology)
- Addressed societal issues and human follies ('s )
Gradual Shift Towards Romanticism
- Increased focus on nature, emotion, and individualism in poetry
- Introduced elements of , , and (Thomas Gray's Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard)
- Moved away from rigid poetic forms towards more experimental and expressive styles
- Emergence of the as an aesthetic concept emphasizing awe-inspiring natural phenomena
- Began exploring more evocative and symbolically rich expressions
- Shifted towards more personal and subjective poetry
- Introduced as a distinct genre ('s )
Factors Influencing Transition
Socioeconomic Changes
- Industrial Revolution sparked reassessment of humanity's relationship with nature
- Rise of middle class and increased literacy rates expanded audience for poetry
- Encouraged more accessible and emotionally resonant works
- Increased interest in , medieval literature, and national identity
- Contributed to shift away from classical allusions towards localized subject matter
- in literature and architecture introduced mysterious and supernatural elements
- Influenced poetic imagination ('s )
Political and Philosophical Shifts
- American and French Revolutions fostered ideals of and social change
- Influenced poets to explore themes of personal freedom and political upheaval
- Enlightenment philosophy's emphasis on reason challenged by emerging ideas about emotion and intuition
- Evangelical revival and new religious movements encouraged introspection
- Promoted personal spiritual experiences in poetic themes ('s hymns)
Augustan vs Pre-Romantic Poetry
Structural and Stylistic Differences
- Augustan poets favored formal, structured verse forms
- Pre-Romantic poets experimented with looser, more organic structures and
- Augustan poetry emphasized satirical and moralistic tone
- Pre-Romantic works adopted more lyrical and introspective approach
- Augustan poetry focused on urban settings and societal issues
- Pre-Romantic poetry idealized rural and pastoral settings ('s )
- Augustan poets used clear, precise language
- Pre-Romantic poets explored evocative and symbolically rich expressions
Thematic Shifts
- Augustan poets addressed societal issues and human follies
- Pre-Romantic poets focused on individual emotions and personal experiences
- Augustan poetry incorporated classical allusions and mythological references
- Pre-Romantic works referenced nature and
- Augustan poetry served didactic purpose
- Pre-Romantic poetry adopted exploratory and emotionally expressive approach
- Augustan poets viewed themselves as social commentators
- Pre-Romantic period redefined role of poet as visionary figure
Significance of Pre-Romantic Period
Literary Innovations
- Served as crucial bridge between Augustan and Romantic eras
- Facilitated gradual evolution in poetic style and content
- Introduced new themes and sensibilities central to Romantic movement
- Emphasized importance of imagination and emotional authenticity
- Paved way for more radical innovations of Romantic poets
- Contributed to development of lyric as dominant poetic mode in 19th century
- Revived interest in ballads and exploration of national identity in poetry (Thomas Percy's Reliques of Ancient English Poetry)
Cultural Impact
- Emergence of nature poetry as distinct genre laid groundwork for Romantic celebration of natural world
- Shift towards personal and subjective poetry influenced later literary movements
- Pre-Romantic interest in folk traditions inspired collection and preservation of oral literature
- Redefined role of poet from social commentator to visionary figure
- Influenced development of Gothic literature ('s )
- Contributed to growing interest in medieval history and literature
- Helped shape modern concepts of individual identity and emotional expression in art
Key Terms to Review (35)
Alexander Pope: Alexander Pope was an influential English poet of the early 18th century, known for his mastery of the heroic couplet and his satirical verse. His work reflects the ideals of Neoclassicism and the Augustan Age, showcasing a blend of wit, moral reflection, and critique of society, which connects him to significant literary movements and figures of the time.
American Revolution: The American Revolution was a colonial revolt that took place between 1765 and 1783, resulting in the thirteen American colonies gaining independence from British rule. This period was marked by the struggle for self-governance and the quest for individual rights, which greatly influenced the emergence of Romantic literature, moving away from the previous Augustan ideals of reason and order.
Ann Radcliffe: Ann Radcliffe was a pioneering English author known for her influential works in the Gothic novel genre during the late 18th century. Her narratives often featured themes of terror, the supernatural, and the sublime, capturing the transition from the rationality of Augustan poetry to the emotional depth characteristic of Romantic literature.
Augustan Literature: Augustan Literature refers to a period in English literature during the early 18th century, characterized by a focus on reason, order, and formality, influenced by classical ideals and the social context of the time. It is marked by the works of prominent authors who employed satire, wit, and an emphasis on moral instruction, reflecting the complexities of society and human nature.
Blank verse: Blank verse is a type of poetry that is written in unrhymed iambic pentameter, making it a popular choice for dramatic and narrative poetry. Its flexible rhythm allows for natural speech patterns while maintaining a formal structure, making it an effective medium for serious themes and character exploration. It plays a significant role in various literary contexts, showcasing the evolution of poetic forms and techniques over time.
Didactic Themes: Didactic themes refer to the elements in literature that are designed to instruct or teach the reader about moral, ethical, or practical lessons. These themes often reflect the author's intent to convey specific messages or values, engaging readers in a process of reflection and personal growth. As literature transitioned from Augustan to Romantic poetry, the didactic elements evolved to emphasize individual experience and emotional depth alongside moral instruction.
Emotional expressiveness: Emotional expressiveness refers to the ability to convey and communicate feelings through various forms of expression, such as words, actions, and artistic mediums. This concept became increasingly significant during the transition from Augustan poetry to Romantic poetry, as poets began to prioritize personal emotion and individual experience over the restrained and formal style of earlier works. The shift allowed for a deeper exploration of human feelings, nature, and the complexities of the individual psyche.
Folklore: Folklore refers to the traditional beliefs, customs, stories, songs, and practices of a culture, passed down orally from generation to generation. It embodies the collective identity and shared experiences of a community, often reflecting their values, history, and social norms. Folklore serves as a bridge between the past and present, influencing literature and artistic expression, especially during the transition from one literary period to another.
French Revolution: The French Revolution was a period of radical social and political upheaval in France from 1789 to 1799 that had a profound impact on the course of modern history. It marked the transition from absolute monarchy to a republic, challenging traditional hierarchies and influencing political thought across Europe, particularly during the Romantic period.
Gothic revival: Gothic revival refers to a cultural movement in the 18th and 19th centuries that sought to revive the Gothic architectural style and its associated themes in literature, art, and design. This movement was characterized by an interest in medieval aesthetics, romanticism, and the exploration of emotional depth and darker themes, which resonated with the shift from neoclassical ideals to a more expressive artistic vision.
Gulliver's Travels: Gulliver's Travels is a satirical novel written by Jonathan Swift, published in 1726, that follows the voyages of Lemuel Gulliver to various strange lands. The book critiques human nature, society, and politics through fantastical adventures, which reflect Swift's views on the corruption and absurdities of contemporary society.
Heroic couplets: Heroic couplets are pairs of rhymed lines of iambic pentameter, often used in English poetry to convey themes of heroism and grandeur. This form became a prominent feature in the poetry of the late 17th and early 18th centuries, reflecting the clarity and balance favored by Augustan poets, and eventually transitioning into the more expressive styles of Romantic poetry.
Horace Walpole: Horace Walpole was an English author, politician, and art historian, best known for his pioneering role in the development of Gothic fiction with his novel 'The Castle of Otranto'. He introduced a blend of supernatural elements and emotional intensity, which marked a significant shift from the rationalism of Augustan literature to the Romantic sensibilities that followed.
Imagination: Imagination refers to the faculty of forming new ideas, images, or concepts that are not directly perceived through the senses. It plays a crucial role in the creative processes of poetry and art, allowing for the exploration of emotions, nature, and the human experience beyond mere reality.
Individual liberty: Individual liberty refers to the freedom of each person to act according to their own will, free from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life, behavior, or political views. This concept is pivotal in literature, especially during the transition from Augustan to Romantic poetry, as it highlights the importance of personal experience and emotional expression over rigid social norms and conventions.
Introspection: Introspection is the examination of one's own thoughts and feelings, a process of self-reflection that enables individuals to analyze their internal mental states. This practice became especially significant during the transition from Augustan to Romantic poetry, where poets began to prioritize personal emotion and individual experience over the rationality and decorum valued in earlier works.
James Thomson: James Thomson was a Scottish poet and playwright, best known for his long poem 'The Seasons,' which marked a significant shift in English poetry during the transition from Augustan to Romantic styles. His work is characterized by vivid imagery and emotional depth, reflecting the beauty of nature and the human experience, which aligns with the emerging themes of pre-Romantic poetry.
Jonathan Swift: Jonathan Swift was an Irish author and satirist, best known for his works that combined sharp wit and biting social commentary. His writing is often associated with the early 18th century and is a key part of the transition from Augustan literature to the Romantic movement, particularly through his use of satire to address social issues and human folly.
Local folklore: Local folklore refers to the traditions, customs, stories, and beliefs that are passed down through generations within a specific community or region. This body of cultural knowledge often reflects the values and experiences of the people, shaping their identity and sense of belonging. It plays a crucial role in literature, particularly during the transition from Augustan to Romantic poetry, where poets began to value emotional depth and individual experience over the more formal and rational elements that characterized the earlier period.
Lyrical ballad: A lyrical ballad is a type of poetry that combines elements of both lyrical and narrative poetry, often focusing on everyday experiences, nature, and emotions. It marked a significant departure from the formal and didactic nature of earlier poetry, emphasizing personal expression and simplicity, which are key characteristics of Romanticism.
Melancholy: Melancholy is a deep, persistent sadness or gloom that often evokes feelings of nostalgia, reflection, and introspection. It frequently appears in literature as a theme or mood, influencing the tone and emotional depth of poetic works, often tied to the human experience and the contemplation of loss, nature, and mortality.
Nature poetry: Nature poetry is a literary genre that emphasizes the beauty and significance of the natural world, often exploring themes of connection between humans and nature. It reflects a shift in perspective from a structured and rational view of the world, characteristic of earlier periods, to a more emotive and subjective engagement with nature, highlighting feelings, intuition, and a deep appreciation for the natural environment.
Oliver Goldsmith: Oliver Goldsmith was an Anglo-Irish writer, known for his poetry, plays, and novels, who became a key figure in the Johnsonian circle and contributed significantly to the transition from Augustan to Romantic literature. His works reflect a blend of humor, sentiment, and social commentary that influenced literary culture during the 18th century and laid the groundwork for the Romantic movement.
Romanticism: Romanticism was an artistic, literary, and intellectual movement that originated in Europe in the late 18th century and emphasized emotion, individualism, and the glorification of nature. It was a response to the industrial revolution and the scientific rationalization of nature, advocating for a return to emotional depth and a focus on personal experience in art and literature.
Samuel Johnson: Samuel Johnson was an influential English writer, lexicographer, and critic of the 18th century, best known for his contributions to English literature through his extensive dictionary and essays. His works reflect the transition of literary styles and thought during his time, bridging the gap between the Augustan and Romantic periods.
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.
Sublime: The sublime refers to an aesthetic quality that evokes a sense of awe or beauty that transcends ordinary experience, often associated with vastness, grandeur, and the overwhelming power of nature. This concept plays a significant role in shaping poetic expression, influencing how emotions and perceptions are conveyed through imagery and themes.
The Castle of Otranto: The Castle of Otranto is a Gothic novel written by Horace Walpole, published in 1764, and is considered the first of its kind in English literature. This work set the stage for Gothic fiction by introducing elements such as supernatural occurrences, mysterious settings, and dark atmospheres. Its influence can be seen in the evolution from the rationalism of Augustan poetry to the emotional depth and romanticism that defined later works.
The Deserted Village: The Deserted Village is a poem by Oliver Goldsmith, first published in 1770, that reflects on the impact of rural depopulation due to the rise of urbanization and industrialization. The poem portrays the decline of a once-thriving village as its inhabitants leave in search of better opportunities in the city, highlighting themes of nostalgia, loss, and the changing landscape of society.
The Mysteries of Udolpho: The Mysteries of Udolpho is a Gothic novel by Ann Radcliffe published in 1794, which centers on the character Emily St. Aubert and her encounters with the eerie and supernatural elements surrounding Udolpho, a mysterious castle. The novel represents the transition from the rationalism of Augustan literature to the emotional depth characteristic of Romanticism, showcasing the use of Gothic themes and narrative techniques that would influence later writers.
The seasons: The seasons refer to the four distinct periods of the year—spring, summer, autumn, and winter—each characterized by unique climatic conditions and natural phenomena. In literature, the seasons often symbolize the cycles of life, human emotions, and the passage of time, serving as a backdrop for themes of change, renewal, and decay.
Thomas Gray: Thomas Gray was an English poet and scholar known for his lyrical poetry and his role in the pre-Romantic movement. His most famous work, 'Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard,' captures themes of mortality and the beauty of nature, bridging the gap between the formal structures of Augustan poetry and the emotional depth found in Romantic poetry.
Thomas Percy’s Reliques of Ancient English Poetry: Thomas Percy’s Reliques of Ancient English Poetry is a collection of ballads and poems published in 1765 that aimed to revive interest in the poetic traditions of England. This work is significant as it helped bridge the gap between the Augustan period's classical influences and the burgeoning Romantic movement by emphasizing emotion, nature, and folklore.
William Collins: William Collins was an English poet known for his significant contributions to the poetry of the mid-18th century, particularly through his odes that bridge the gap between Augustan poetry and Romanticism. His work is characterized by lyrical innovation and a pre-Romantic sensibility, exploring themes of nature, beauty, and human emotion, making him a pivotal figure in the transition from one poetic era to another.
William Cowper: William Cowper was an influential English poet and hymnodist of the 18th century, known for his significant contributions to the transition from Augustan to Romantic poetry. His work reflects a deep emotional sensitivity, moving away from the rationalism of the Augustan poets towards a focus on personal experience and nature, which would become defining features of Romanticism. Cowper's poetry often grapples with themes of faith, mental health, and the beauty of the natural world, setting the stage for later Romantic poets.