Augustan Criticism

Definition

Augustan criticism refers to the literary and artistic theories and practices that emerged during the reign of Queen Anne and the early 18th century, emphasizing reason, wit, and restraint in poetry and prose. This approach celebrated the principles of order, clarity, and decorum, which were seen as essential to the neoclassical ideal. In this context, writers sought to emulate classical models while advocating for a balanced expression of emotions and intellect.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Augustan criticism was characterized by a focus on reason and intellectual rigor, often promoting moral and ethical standards in literature.
2. Writers like Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift embodied Augustan criticism through their use of satire to comment on societal issues and human follies.
3. This form of criticism advocated for a restrained emotional expression in literature, contrasting with the more passionate and individualistic styles that followed in later periods.
4. Augustan critics valued clarity in language and form, believing that a well-structured piece of writing was essential for effective communication.
5. The influence of classical authors such as Horace and Juvenal played a significant role in shaping the ideals of Augustan criticism, encouraging writers to draw from ancient traditions.

Review Questions

• How did Augustan criticism reflect the values of the neoclassical ideal in poetry?
  • Augustan criticism aligned closely with neoclassical ideals by emphasizing reason, order, and restraint in poetic expression. Writers sought to achieve clarity and precision in their works while adhering to established forms and conventions. This focus on structure allowed poets to explore complex themes without sacrificing decorum, making their messages more impactful while maintaining an intellectual rigor that defined the era.
• What role did satire play in the development of Augustan criticism?
  • Satire was a vital element of Augustan criticism as it provided a means for writers to engage with contemporary social issues through humor and irony. Authors like Jonathan Swift used satire not only to entertain but also to critique political corruption, moral decay, and societal norms. This approach allowed them to provoke thought among readers while adhering to the rationalist principles that underpinned Augustan criticism.
• Evaluate how the characteristics of Augustan criticism laid the groundwork for future literary movements beyond the 18th century.
  • The emphasis on reason, structure, and restraint established by Augustan criticism had lasting effects on literary movements that followed. Its insistence on clarity influenced Romanticism's reaction against emotional excess by prompting poets to reconsider how they expressed feelings within structured forms. Additionally, elements of satire persisted into later movements like Modernism, where writers maintained a critical lens towards society. Thus, Augustan criticism shaped both the content and style of subsequent literature by promoting a balance between intellect and emotion.

Related terms

Neoclassicism: An artistic movement that drew inspiration from the classical art and literature of ancient Greece and Rome, focusing on harmony, proportion, and adherence to traditional forms.

Satire: A literary technique that uses humor, irony, or ridicule to criticize or mock societal norms, individuals, or institutions, often prominent in Augustan literature.

Rationalism: A philosophical stance emphasizing reason and logic as the primary sources of knowledge and understanding, influencing the values of Augustan criticism.