The Longer Poems Volume: Puritan To Restoration

An Extended Literary Landscape

In the annals of English literature, the seventeenth century stands as a vibrant and transformative era, marked by profound social, political, and religious upheavals. Amidst this tumultuous backdrop, poetry flourished, evolving into a rich tapestry of expression that mirrored the complexities of the times. One notable aspect of this poetic landscape was the emergence of the "longer poem," a genre that allowed poets to explore weighty themes and narratives with greater depth and complexity.

This article embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the longer poems composed during the period from Puritanism to Restoration, spanning the years of 1603 to 1689. We will delve into the historical context that shaped these works, examining the ways in which Puritanism, the English Civil War, and the Restoration influenced poetic themes, styles, and forms.

The Longer Poems - Volume 1 - Puritan To Restoration: “Bold knaves thrive without one grain of sense, But good men starve for want of impudence.”

by Hollee Temple

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	176 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	71 pages
Paperback	:	206 pages

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Puritanical Fervor and the Weight of Faith

The early seventeenth century was dominated by the rise of Puritanism, a Protestant movement that emphasized strict adherence to religious principles and the rejection of worldly pleasures. This fervent religious sentiment left an indelible mark on the poetry of the time, as poets sought to use their craft to convey spiritual truths and moral lessons.

One prominent example of Puritan poetry is John Milton's epic masterpiece, "Paradise Lost" (1674). This sprawling work, composed in blank verse, recounts the biblical story of Adam and Eve's fall from grace. Milton's profound exploration of sin, temptation, and redemption reflects the Puritan preoccupation with human frailty and the search for salvation.

Another notable Puritan poet was George Herbert, whose collection "The Temple" (1633) celebrated the joys and sorrows of the Christian life. Herbert's intricate metaphysical conceits and meditative tone captured the essence of Puritan spirituality, emphasizing the importance of faith, humility, and a close relationship with God.

Civil Strife and the Echo of Battle

The mid-seventeenth century witnessed the outbreak of the English Civil War, a tumultuous conflict that pitted Royalists against Parliamentarians. The war had a profound impact on the poetic landscape, as poets responded to the bloodshed and political upheaval by crafting works that reflected the turmoil and uncertainty of the times.

Andrew Marvell, a prominent Parliamentarian poet, penned evocative poems that captured the horrors of war and the struggle for freedom. His "Upon Appleton House" (1650) is a complex allegorical work that reflects on the Civil War and the clash between monarchy and republicanism.

John Dryden, initially a supporter of the Royalists, later shifted his allegiance to the Parliamentarians. His poem "Annus Mirabilis" (1667) commemorates the Dutch naval attacks on England in 1666 and celebrates the resilience of the English people.

Restoration and the Rebirth of Courtly Grace

The Restoration of the monarchy in 1660 marked a significant shift in the social and cultural climate of England. The Puritanical fervor of the previous decades gave way to a more libertine and hedonistic atmosphere, which found expression in the poetry of the time.

Samuel Butler's satirical masterpiece "Hudibras" (1663) lampooned Puritan hypocrisy and mocked the religious zeal that had characterized the Civil War period. His witty and irreverent verse captured the disillusionment and skepticism that prevailed after the Restoration.

John Wilmot, Earl of Rochester, was another renowned Restoration poet known for his racy and libertine verse. His poems celebrated the pleasures of wine, women, and debauchery, reflecting the hedonistic spirit of the court of King Charles II.

Epic Continuities and the Legacy of Tradition

Throughout the period from Puritanism to Restoration, the epic poem remained a popular and enduring genre. Poets continued to draw inspiration from classical models and biblical narratives, crafting works that explored grand themes of heroism, destiny, and the human condition.

Abraham Cowley's "Davideis" (1656) is an epic in four books that recounts the life of King David. Cowley's poem is notable for its use of heroic couplets and its combination of religious and classical elements.

William Chamberlayne's "Pharonnida" (1659) is another epic of note, this one based on the romantic adventures of an Ethiopian prince. Chamberlayne's poem exemplifies the growing influence of French heroic romance on English literature during the Restoration period.

: A Transformative Tapestry of Verse

The longer poems composed during the period from Puritanism to Restoration constitute a rich and diverse body of work that reflects the profound social, political, and religious upheavals of the era. From the Puritanical fervor of Milton and Herbert to the satirical wit of Butler and the libertine verse of Rochester, these poems capture the complexities of human experience and the enduring power of language to illuminate the human condition.

By exploring the historical context and examining the works of key poets, we gain a deeper appreciation for the transformative journey of English poetry during this pivotal period. The longer poems of Puritanism to Restoration serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of art to mirror the complexities of our world.

The Longer Poems - Volume 1 - Puritan To Restoration: “Bold knaves thrive without one grain of sense, But good men starve for want of impudence.”

by Hollee Temple

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	176 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	71 pages
Paperback	:	206 pages

FREE