Poetry

Neoclassical Period

Neoclassical Period

Also known as the Age of Reason, characterized by a revival of decorum in literature.

Neoclassical Literature

Literature that marked a return to order, proportion, restraint, logic, accuracy, and decorum.

Key Influences of Neoclassicism in England

Seventeenth Century French writers, especially dramatists and poets.

Reaction Against

Neoclassical writers reacted against the intensity of the Renaissance period.

Appeal to the Intellect

Neoclassical writers focused on appealing to the intellect of the reader.

Classical Literary Forms

Forms such as satire and ode that were utilized in Neoclassical works.

Notable English Neoclassicists

Includes Alexander Pope, Jonathan Swift, and Joseph Addison.

Duration of the Neoclassical Period

Lasted from the late seventeenth century until about 1800 in European history.

Goal of Neoclassical Literature

Often governed by the classical goal of instruction.