5. Baroque and Restoration Poetry (17th Century)

Who coined the term metaphysical poetry?

Samuel Johnson.

Who are the representatives of metaphysical poetry?

John Donne, George Herbert, Andrew Marvell.

What are the characteristic features of metaphysical poetry?

• Intellectual challenge,

• Spiritual exploration,

• Complexity of emotion,

• Unexpected imagery,

• Paradox,

• Intricate argumentation,

• The use of conceit (an extremely ingenious or fanciful parallel between apparently dissimilar objects or situations).

Example: John Donne's A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning (key example of a conceit).

Who are the representatives of cavalier poetry?

Richard Lovelace, Robert Herrick.

What are the characteristic features of Cavalier poetry?

Cavalier poets were typically aristocratic courtiers who supported King Charles I.

• Focus on courtly themes (sensual love, beauty, loyalty, honor),

• The idea of carpe diem (hedonism),

• Classical erudition,

• Elegance, wit, and a light-hearted, conversational style.

Example: Robert Herrick's To the Virgins, to Make Much of Time (classic "carpe diem" poem.

What is restoration poetry about?

A continuation of the Cavalier school, characterized by

• Simple, easy, polished language,

• An approaching spirit of Neoclassicism (interest in classical translations),

• Argumentative and satirical poetry on social matters.

Who was England's first Poet Laureate (1668)?

John Dryden.

What was the Restoration period often called?

"The Age of Dryden".

What was John Dryden known for?

• Political satires (e.g., Absalom and Achitophel),

• Translations and adaptations of classical authors,

• Considered the "father of English criticism" for works like Essay of Dramatick Poesie.