NINETEENTH CENTURY ENGLISH LITERATURE – WILLIAM BLAKE

NINETEENTH CENTURY ENGLISH LITERATURE – WILLIAM BLAKE

Songs of innocence, songs of experience, Man’s struggle with a Maker, who is at once benevolent, and also jealous, and tyrannical - these were his themes, portrayed deeply in layers of both innocence and experience, questioning, and expressing. He portrays, the bliss of innocence, and childhood, and he is obviously very critical of his age that bound man, and shackled his expression of joy. His themes are romantic, which means Man’s striving to break free, and the conflicts with both the Maker, and the society around him. Yet, his poems are supremely crafted and shows all these themes in profound perception and wholeness, revealing both the innocence and experience.

 

William Blake: The Visionary Poet and Artist

William Blake (1757–1827) was an English poet, painter, and printmaker whose works remain some of the most original and visionary in Western literature and art. A figure of the Romantic Age, Blake defied conventional norms, blending mysticism, social criticism, and artistic innovation. His illuminated books, such as Songs of Innocence and Experience and The Marriage of Heaven and Hell, reveal a mind deeply engaged with spiritual, political, and philosophical questions.

Early Life and Artistic Training

Born in London, Blake showed an early inclination for art and poetry. At age ten, he began studying drawing, later apprenticing with engraver James Basire. This training in engraving influenced his later work, as Blake developed a unique method of "illuminated printing," combining text and image in hand-colored plates. His wife, Catherine Boucher, assisted him in this labor-intensive process, which allowed him to control every aspect of his publications.

Poetic Works: Innocence vs. Experience

Blake’s most famous poetry collections, Songs of Innocence (1789) and Songs of Experience (1794), explore contrasting states of the human soul. The Songs of Innocence depict childlike wonder and purity, as seen in poems like The Lamb and The Chimney Sweeper. However, Songs of Experience presents a darker vision, critiquing social oppression and corruption—The Tyger and London reveal Blake’s anger at institutional cruelty, particularly child labor and industrial exploitation.

Mysticism and Prophetic Books

Blake’s later works, known as his "Prophetic Books," are dense with mythological and biblical imagery. In The Marriage of Heaven and Hell (1790–93), he subverts traditional morality, declaring that "without contraries is no progression." His epic poems, such as Milton and Jerusalem, envision spiritual rebirth and humanity’s liberation from oppression. Blake rejected the rationalism of the Enlightenment, instead embracing imagination as divine inspiration.

Art and Symbolism

Beyond poetry, Blake was a prolific visual artist. His illustrations for The Book of Job, Dante’s Divine Comedy, and his own works reveal a mastery of symbolic imagery. His style—ethereal, dramatic, and often surreal—reflects his belief that art should transcend the material world.

Legacy and Influence

Blake died in obscurity but is now celebrated as a revolutionary thinker. His defiance of authority, advocacy for free love and human rights, and fusion of art and poetry influenced later movements like Symbolism, Surrealism, and countercultural figures like Allen Ginsberg.

William Blake remains a towering figure whose works challenge readers to see beyond the visible world and embrace the power of imagination. As he wrote in The Auguries of Innocence:

"To see a World in a Grain of Sand

And a Heaven in a Wild Flower,

Hold Infinity in the palm of your hand

And Eternity in an hour."

His legacy endures as a testament to creativity, rebellion, and visionary genius.

NINETEENTH CENTURY ENGLISH LITERATURE - THE FUNDAMENTAL TENETS OF ROMANTICISM

NINETEENTH CENTURY ENGLISH LITERATURE - THE FUNDAMENTAL TENETS OF ROMANTICISM 

UNDERSTANDING THE FUNDAMENTALS OF ROMANTICISM 

LEARNING OUTCOMES 

In this module, we will see in-depth how Romanticism flourished during that period, what its nature was and why it emerged then, with illustrative examples.

MAIN TENETS OF ROMANTICISM

Rational thinking or imagination that has no boundaries- this was the question posed at the turn of the enligtenment. This period saw the emergence of a new form of art and literature that historians called Romanticism. This school celebrates emotion, color, a sense of beauty, celebration of life, and imaginative exploration.

It is as if man had finally escaped into freedom, the freedom to explore the whole of the boundaries of human existence. There was intensity, and beauty of perception, and expression of that beauty. it was as if man now could not be stopped, and he delighted in that unfettered freedom, from the burden of the ages that seemed to have shackled him!!

NINETEENTH CENTURY ENGLISH LITERATURE - THE FUNDAMENTAL TENETS OF ROMANTICISM

The Fundamental Tenets of Romanticism

Romanticism was an artistic, literary, and intellectual movement that emerged in the late 18th century as a reaction against the Enlightenment’s emphasis on reason, order, and scientific rationalism. It flourished across Europe and America, influencing literature, music, painting, and philosophy. Romanticism celebrated emotion, individualism, nature, and the sublime, rejecting the rigid structures of neoclassicism. Below are its fundamental tenets:

1. Emphasis on Emotion and Intuition

Romanticism prioritized feelings over logic, valuing personal experience and emotional depth. Writers and artists sought to evoke strong emotions—love, awe, terror, and melancholy—as a means of connecting with the human spirit. For example, William Wordsworth’s poetry focused on introspection and emotional authenticity, while composers like Beethoven used music to express profound passion.

2. Celebration of Nature

Nature was a central theme in Romanticism, often depicted as a source of beauty, spiritual renewal, and inspiration. Unlike the Enlightenment’s view of nature as something to be controlled, Romantics saw it as a powerful, almost divine force. Poets like John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley used vivid natural imagery to convey emotion, while painters like Caspar David Friedrich portrayed landscapes as awe-inspiring and mystical.

3. The Sublime and the Supernatural

Romanticism embraced the concept of the sublime—experiences that inspire overwhelming awe, often mixed with fear, such as vast landscapes or violent storms. This fascination extended to the supernatural, with Gothic literature (e.g., Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s The Rime of the Ancient Mariner) exploring mysterious and eerie themes.

4. Individualism and the Heroic Figure

Romanticism exalted the individual, often portraying rebellious or misunderstood heroes who defied societal norms. Lord Byron’s Byronic Hero—charismatic yet tormented—exemplified this ideal. Artists and writers emphasized personal freedom, creativity, and self-expression, rejecting conformity.

5. Glorification of the Past and Folk Traditions

Romantics often looked to medieval history, folklore, and national heritage for inspiration, rejecting industrialization’s dehumanizing effects. The Brothers Grimm collected fairy tales, while Sir Walter Scott revived interest in medieval chivalry through works like Ivanhoe.

6. Critique of Industrialization and Urbanization

Many Romantics lamented the rise of factories and cities, viewing them as destructive to nature and human spirit. William Blake’s "dark Satanic mills" in Jerusalem criticized industrialization, while Wordsworth’s poetry idealized rural life.

Conclusion

Romanticism’s legacy lies in its celebration of emotion, nature, and individualism. By rejecting Enlightenment rationalism, it reshaped art and literature, leaving a lasting influence on later movements like Symbolism and Transcendentalism. Its ideals continue to resonate in modern culture, emphasizing the power of human feeling and the natural world.

ENGLISH LITERATURE 1590-1798 – SAMUEL JOHNSON

ENGLISH LITERATURE 1590-1798 – SAMUEL JOHNSON

Samuel Johnson: A Literary Giant

Samuel Johnson (1709–1784) was one of the most influential figures in English literature, known for his sharp wit, moral insight, and monumental contributions to language and criticism. Often referred to as Dr. Johnson, he left an indelible mark as a lexicographer, essayist, poet, and biographer. His works, including A Dictionary of the English Language (1755) and The Lives of the Poets (1779–1781), remain foundational texts in literary history.

Early Life and Struggles

Born in Lichfield, England, Johnson faced numerous hardships from an early age. He suffered from scrofula, which left him partially blind and deaf, and his family’s financial difficulties forced him to leave Oxford University without a degree. Despite these setbacks, Johnson’s intellectual curiosity and determination propelled him forward. After moving to London in 1737, he worked as a journalist and essayist, contributing to The Gentleman’s Magazine and later founding The Rambler (1750–1752), a periodical featuring his moral and critical essays.

A Dictionary of the English Language

Johnson’s most celebrated achievement was his Dictionary, published in 1755 after nine years of labor. Unlike previous dictionaries, Johnson’s work provided extensive definitions, etymologies, and literary quotations, setting a new standard for lexicography. Though not the first English dictionary, it was the most comprehensive and authoritative of its time. Johnson’s wit and personality shine through in some definitions, such as his famous entry for "lexicographer": "a harmless drudge." The Dictionary cemented his reputation as a scholar and became a cornerstone of English linguistic study.

Literary Criticism and The Lives of the Poets

Johnson was also a formidable literary critic. His Preface to Shakespeare (1765) praised Shakespeare’s ability to portray universal human nature while critiquing his disregard for classical dramatic rules. Later, in The Lives of the Poets, Johnson provided biographical and critical sketches of 52 poets, blending sharp analysis with moral judgment. His assessments—such as his mixed review of Milton’s Paradise Lost—remain influential in literary criticism.

Personality and Legacy

Johnson’s personality was as notable as his works. His quick wit, deep compassion, and bouts of melancholy were famously documented by his friend and biographer James Boswell in The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791). Boswell’s portrayal immortalized Johnson’s conversational brilliance and moral rigor, making him a central figure in 18th-century intellectual life.

Despite his conservative views on politics and literature, Johnson’s emphasis on reason, morality, and clarity in writing influenced generations of writers. His legacy endures not only in his works but also in the enduring image of a man who triumphed over adversity through intellect and perseverance.

Conclusion

Samuel Johnson’s contributions to literature, language, and criticism make him one of the most important figures of the 18th century. His Dictionary shaped the English language, his essays and biographies offered profound insights, and his life story inspired countless readers. A man of contradictions—both stern and compassionate, conservative yet revolutionary in his scholarship—Johnson remains a towering presence in the history of English letters.

 

ENGLISH LITERATURE 1590-1798 – DRAMA AND PROSE OF 18TH CENTURY OLIVER GOLDSMITH

ENGLISH LITERATURE 1590-1798 – DRAMA AND PROSE OF 18TH CENTURY OLIVER GOLDSMITH ENGLISH LITERATURE 1590-1798 – DRAMA AND PROSE OF 18TH CENTURY OLIVER GOLDSMITH

Drama and Prose of the 18th Century: Oliver Goldsmith

Oliver Goldsmith (1730–1774) was one of the most versatile and influential writers of the 18th century, contributing significantly to both drama and prose. His works reflect the social and literary trends of the time, blending satire, sentimentality, and moral commentary.

Goldsmith’s Prose

Goldsmith’s prose works are marked by humor, wit, and keen observations of human nature. His most famous novel, The Vicar of Wakefield (1766), is a sentimental yet satirical portrayal of rural life. The novel follows Dr. Primrose, a virtuous but naive clergyman, and his family as they endure various misfortunes. Despite its melodramatic elements, the novel critiques social injustices and highlights themes of resilience and morality.

In addition to fiction, Goldsmith wrote essays that appeared in periodicals such as The Public Ledger. His Citizen of the World (1762) is a collection of letters from a fictional Chinese traveler, Lien Chi Altangi, who humorously critiques British society. Through this outsider’s perspective, Goldsmith satirizes 18th-century customs, politics, and manners.

Goldsmith’s Drama

Goldsmith also made significant contributions to 18th-century drama, particularly with She Stoops to Conquer (1773), one of the most enduring comedies of the period. The play subverts the sentimental drama popular at the time by emphasizing farce and humor. The plot revolves around misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and the antics of characters like Tony Lumpkin. Through its lively comedy, the play critiques class distinctions and social pretensions.

His earlier play, The Good-Natur’d Man (1768), though less successful, also challenged the sentimental comedy trend by presenting flawed but humorous characters. Goldsmith believed that comedy should provoke laughter rather than moral instruction, aligning him with Restoration comedy traditions while adapting them to 18th-century tastes.

Legacy and Influence

Goldsmith’s works bridged the gap between the Augustan age and the emerging Romantic movement. His prose combined moral seriousness with satire, while his drama revived the spirit of robust comedy. Despite his often chaotic personal life, Goldsmith’s literary output remains a testament to his wit, humanity, and keen social insight.

In conclusion, Oliver Goldsmith’s contributions to 18th-century literature—through his sentimental yet critical prose and his revival of laughing comedy—cement his place as a key figure of the period. His works continue to be celebrated for their humor, warmth, and enduring relevance.

ENGLISH LITERATURE 1590-1798 - WILLIAM CONGREVE: THE WAY OF THE WORLD

ENGLISH LITERATURE 1590-1798 - WILLIAM CONGREVE: THE WAY OF THE WORLD ENGLISH LITERATURE 1590-1798 - WILLIAM CONGREVE: THE WAY OF THE WORLD

William Congreve’s The Way of the World: A Masterpiece of Restoration Comedy

William Congreve’s The Way of the World (1700) is widely regarded as the finest example of Restoration comedy, a genre known for its wit, satire, and intricate plots centered on love, marriage, and social intrigue. Though it was not an immediate success in its time, the play has since been celebrated for its sharp dialogue, complex characters, and incisive critique of the manners and morals of late 17th-century English society.

Plot and Themes

The play revolves around the romantic and financial machinations of its central characters, Mirabell and Millamant. Mirabell, a clever and charming gentleman, is in love with the witty and independent Millamant. However, their marriage is complicated by financial and social obstacles, primarily orchestrated by Millamant’s aunt, Lady Wishfort, who controls her niece’s fortune. The plot involves disguises, secret agreements, and clever deceptions, culminating in Mirabell’s triumph through his superior wit and strategic maneuvering.

At its core, The Way of the World explores themes of love, money, and social pretense. Unlike earlier Restoration comedies, which often celebrated libertinism, Congreve’s work presents a more refined critique of marriage as a transactional institution. The famous "proviso scene" between Mirabell and Millamant—where they negotiate the terms of their marriage—showcases Congreve’s brilliance in blending romance with pragmatism, revealing the tensions between personal desire and societal expectations.

Characters and Satire

Congreve’s characters are vividly drawn, embodying the follies and vices of the upper class. Lady Wishfort, a vain and aging coquette, is a figure of ridicule, desperate to retain her fading beauty and social influence. The foolish Sir Wilfull Witwoud and the foppish Petulant serve as comic foils, highlighting the absurdity of social pretensions. Meanwhile, the villainous Fainall and his mistress Mrs. Marwood embody deceit and self-interest, contrasting with Mirabell’s more honorable (if still manipulative) intentions.

Wit and Language

Congreve’s mastery of language is one of the play’s defining features. The dialogue sparkles with epigrams and double entendres, exemplifying the verbal dexterity of Restoration comedy. Lines such as "Say what you will, ’tis better to be left than never to have been loved" and "Heaven has no rage like love to hatred turned, nor hell a fury like a woman scorned" (though often misattributed to Congreve in a slightly altered form) demonstrate his gift for memorable phrasing.

Legacy

Though The Way of the World initially faced mixed reviews, its sophistication and depth have earned it a lasting place in English drama. It represents the peak of Restoration comedy before the genre gave way to the more sentimental dramas of the 18th century. Modern audiences and critics admire its psychological realism, particularly in the portrayal of Millamant, one of the most compelling female characters of the period.

In conclusion, The Way of the World remains a brilliant satire of love and society, showcasing Congreve’s wit, insight, and enduring relevance. Its exploration of human nature—veiled in humor and elegance—ensures its status as a classic of English literature.