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17th Century

17th-century English poetry saw the rise of various poetic movements including Metaphysical, Cavalier, Puritan and political poetry. Poets during this time explored complex intellectual themes, religious questions, and political issues that reflected the turbulent historical period in England.

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308 views3 pages

17th Century

17th-century English poetry saw the rise of various poetic movements including Metaphysical, Cavalier, Puritan and political poetry. Poets during this time explored complex intellectual themes, religious questions, and political issues that reflected the turbulent historical period in England.

Uploaded by

Yousaf Khan
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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17th Century English Poetry

17th-century English poetry is a fascinating and diverse literary period that saw
significant shifts in style, form, and subject matter. This century gave rise to
various poetic movements and notable poets who left a lasting impact on the
English literary tradition. Here are some key aspects of 17th-century English
poetry:

1. Metaphysical Poetry

One of the most distinctive movements of the 17th century was Metaphysical
poetry. Poets like John Donne, George Herbert, and Andrew Marvell were
prominent figures in this genre. Metaphysical poets explored complex, intellectual
themes and used elaborate conceits, or extended metaphors, to explore the
relationship between the physical and the spiritual.

2. Cavalier Poetry

In contrast to the metaphysical poets, the Cavalier poets, such as Robert Herrick
and Richard Lovelace, celebrated carpe diem ("seize the day") themes and focused
on love, beauty, and the pleasures of life. Their poetry was characterized by its
elegant and graceful style.

3. Puritan Poetry

The 17th century also saw the rise of Puritan poets, such as Anne Bradstreet in
America. Their poetry often centered on religious themes, personal introspection,
and the challenges of living in a society marked by religious conflict and upheaval.

4. Political Poetry

The turbulent political climate of the 17th century, including the English Civil
War, led to the emergence of political poetry. John Milton, one of the most
celebrated poets of this era, authored epic works like "Paradise Lost," which
explored political and religious themes.

5. Restoration Poetry

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With the restoration of the monarchy in 1660, English poetry underwent a shift.
Poets of the Restoration period, such as John Dryden, focused on themes related to
wit, satire, and the court. They often employed heroic couplets and neoclassical
forms.

6. Sonnets

The 17th century continued the tradition of sonnet writing. Shakespeare's sonnets
remained influential, and other poets like John Milton and John Donne also wrote
notable sonnets.

7. The Royal Society and Science

The 17th century was marked by scientific advancements, and some poets, like
Abraham Cowley, explored themes related to science and the natural world in their
poetry.

8. Poetic Forms

The century saw a variety of poetic forms, from the metaphysical conceit to the
heroic couplet, blank verse, and more. These different forms allowed poets to
experiment with language and structure.

9. Religious and Philosophical Exploration

Many poets of this era grappled with religious and philosophical questions,
reflecting the period's intellectual and spiritual ferment.

10. Historical Context

The 17th century was marked by political and religious upheaval, including the
English Civil War, the execution of King Charles I, the Interregnum, and the
eventual restoration of the monarchy. These events significantly influenced the
themes and tone of poetry during this period.

In summary, 17th-century English poetry is a rich and varied literary landscape


that includes Metaphysical, Cavalier, Puritan, and Restoration poets, each with its

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own distinct style and thematic focus. The poetry of this era is an enduring
testament to the tumultuous historical, political, and cultural shifts that
characterized the 17th century in England.

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