Neoclassicism

Definition

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.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Neoclassicism sought to revive the principles of classical art and literature, emphasizing balance and proportion while rejecting the excesses of the Baroque style.
2. Key figures of neoclassicism include John Dryden, Alexander Pope, and Jonathan Swift, who exemplified these ideals in their writings.
3. The movement was closely tied to the Enlightenment, promoting rational thought and critique of societal norms through satire.
4. Neoclassical literature often employed strict forms like heroic couplets in poetry and three-act structures in plays to enhance clarity and order.
5. The decline of neoclassicism in the late 18th century paved the way for Romanticism, which favored emotion and individual expression over classical restraint.

Review Questions

• How did the political and social context of the late 17th century influence the emergence of neoclassicism?
  • The late 17th century was marked by significant political changes such as the Restoration of Charles II and the rise of Enlightenment ideals. These factors fostered an environment that valued reason and order, leading writers and artists to draw inspiration from classical antiquity. Neoclassicism emerged as a response to the chaos of previous eras, advocating for clarity and structure in literature and art as a means of promoting social stability.
• Discuss how neoclassicism is reflected in the characteristics of Restoration comedy.
  • Restoration comedy embodies many neoclassical traits through its emphasis on wit, structure, and social commentary. Playwrights such as William Congreve used clever dialogue and intricate plots to highlight moral failings and societal norms. This genre's adherence to formality mirrors neoclassical values, using humor to critique contemporary issues while maintaining a clear narrative structure that resonates with classical influences.
• Evaluate Samuel Johnson's contributions to neoclassical literature and how they reflect broader literary trends of his time.
  • Samuel Johnson's contributions to neoclassical literature are significant as he embodied the ideals of clarity, reason, and moral instruction prevalent during the neoclassical period. His works, such as 'The Lives of the Poets,' display a structured approach to literary criticism rooted in classical standards. Johnson's commitment to language precision and his advocacy for clear expression align with neoclassical principles while also bridging into emerging romantic sentiments that began to value personal expression alongside classical restraint.

Related terms

Augustan Age: A period in English literature during the late 17th and early 18th centuries marked by a revival of classical styles and themes, often associated with writers like Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift.

Restoration Comedy: A genre of comedy that emerged during the Restoration period in England, known for its witty dialogue, satirical elements, and exploration of social norms, reflecting neoclassical principles.

Empiricism: A philosophical approach emphasizing knowledge gained through experience and observation, which influenced the neoclassical focus on reason and logic in literature and art.