Development of Essays

Def:

An essay is a piece of writing which provides the author's perspective on some subject or topic. Its
length can range from 100 words to 1000 words or maybe more. Essays can be formal and informal.

Origin of essay:

This form of literature is not of ancient origin. In the year 1571, the 'essay' was
invented by a French philosopher named Montaigne. He called his short and minuscule philosophical
writings which were products of the moment by the French word 'assai'. The essay became a good
source to deliver one's feelings and share /her own philosophy through them. Essays can be used for
different purposes like criticizing someone, and basic observations of daily life. There are many countries
that have included essays in their formal education. Writing essays on a regular basis can help in
expanding your knowledge about different things, and it also helps in developing writing skills.
According to "Oxford English Dictionary" the person who used the word essayist for the first time was"
Ben Jonson". When England was going through the "Age of Enlightenment", polemicists of England used
essays as a way to influence their readers. Addison and Steele were one of the most celebrated essayists
of the eighteenth century. Essays existed in Japan way before they existed in Europe, they existed by the
name "Zuihitsu".

“The essay is a literary device for saying almost everything about almost anything.”

— Aldous Huxley

Bacon essay (Aphoristic essay)

Francis Bacon (1561–1626), an English philosopher, statesman, and writer, is often regarded as the
father of the English essay. His essays are considered foundational works of English prose, blending
philosophical depth with practical wisdom. They cover a wide range of topics, including politics, human
behavior, and moral philosophy.

•Characteristics:

1. Conciseness and Brevity:

Bacon's essays are notable for their economy of words. Each sentence is packed with meaning, making
his essays pithy and to the point.
Example: In Of Studies, he writes, “Reading make a full man; conference a ready man; and writing an
exact man.”

2. Aphoristic Style

Bacon's writing is rich in aphorisms—brief, memorable statements that convey universal truths or
principles. These aphorisms often make his essays quotable.

Example: “Knowledge is power” (Meditations Sacrae) or “A wise man will make more opportunities than
he finds” (Of Ceremonies and Respects).

3. Didactic Tone

Bacon’s essays are didactic, meaning they aim to instruct and provide moral or practical guidance. His
writing seeks to enlighten readers with philosophical truths and life lessons.

Example: In Of Truth, he explores the nature of truth and its importance in human life.

4. Blend of Philosophy and Pragmatism

While Bacon’s essays often touch on philosophical ideas, they are rooted in real-life observations and
practical applications, making them accessible and relevant.

Example: In Of Studies, Bacon writes about the practical value of reading and study, offering advice on
how different types of books serve different purposes.

Dryden essay (Critical essay)

Dryden introduced a new variety called Critical essay .These critical essays entitled Dryden the honour
of being not only tha father of English criticism but also the first master of prose which is adapted to the
everyday needs of expressions and yet have the dignity enough to rise to any point of topmost peaks of
eloquence. John Dryden’s critical essays are marked by rationalism, classical influences, a balanced
approach to literary traditions, and a focus on moral and practical lessons in literature.

•Characteristics:
1. Classical Influence

Dryden's criticism was strongly influenced by classical ideas, particularly the works of Aristotle, Horace,
and Longinus. He upheld the classical ideals of unity, decorum, and the principles of rhetoric. Dryden
often referred to classical writers to support his critical points and compared contemporary writers with
the classical tradition. Example: In his "Essay of Dramatic Poesy", Dryden defends the classical unities of
time, place, and action while acknowledging their limitations in the English drama.

2. Rational and Logical Approach

Dryden’s critical essays are marked by their rational, clear, and systematic approach. He argues his
points logically, often presenting a balanced and well-reasoned analysis of different literary issues.

3. Defense of English Literature

Dryden was a major advocate for English literature, especially during a time when French classical
models were heavily influencing the literary world. He promoted English writers like Shakespeare, Ben
Jonson, and Milton, arguing for the greatness of their work in comparison to their European
counterparts.

4. Use of Clear and Elegant Prose

Dryden’s essays are written in clear, concise, and often elegant prose, which makes them accessible and
influential. His style is not overly ornate, but it is highly effective in communicating complex ideas clearly
and persuasively. This practical elegance in writing helped establish the standard for English prose.

Eighteen century (Periodical essay):

The eighteenth-century essay emerged as an important literary form in English literature during the Age
of Enlightenment, also known as the Augustan Age or the Age of Reason. The essay became a popular
medium for discussing a wide range of subjects, including politics, morality, philosophy, social issues,
and literary criticism. Writers of the time used essays to educate, entertain, and provoke thought in an
increasingly literate and curious audience.
•Characteristics:

1. Didactic Purpose

The primary aim of eighteenth-century essays was to instruct and improve society. Writers addressed
moral, ethical, and social issues, offering guidance and insight to readers.

Example: Joseph Addison and Richard Steele’s The Spectator essays often provided moral and social
commentary aimed at refining the manners of the English middle class.

2. Use of Periodicals

The essay became closely associated with the rise of periodical literature. Writers like Addison, Steele,
and Johnson contributed regularly to journals like The Tatler, The Spectator, and The Rambler.

Example: The Spectator (1711–1712) featured daily essays discussing everything from morality to
aesthetics.

3 Blend of Seriousness and Humor

Essays often combined serious moral or philosophical discussions with wit and humor, making them
both thought-provoking and entertaining.

Example: Steele’s essays often used humor to critique social behaviors, while Addison’s essays leaned
more towards moral instruction.

4.Focus on Urban Life

Eighteenth-century essays often reflected the concerns of urban, middle-class readers. They addressed
topics like fashion, manners, literature, commerce, and politics, making them relevant to city life.

Example: Addison and Steele’s essays frequently observed and critiqued the behavior of London’s social
classes.

*19 century:
 The nineteenth-century essay evolved significantly from its predecessors, influenced by the
cultural, social, and intellectual movements of the time, including Romanticism, Victorianism, and the
rise of industrialization. During this period, essays became a vehicle for self-expression, social
commentary, and philosophical exploration, addressing everything from individual emotion and
imagination to social justice and political reform.

Prominent Essayists

Charles Lamb:

Key works: Essays of Elia

Themes: Personal musings, nostalgia, and humor.

John Stuart Mill:

Key works: On Liberty, The Subjection of Women

Themes: Freedom, equality, and democracy.

Matthew Arnold:

Key works: Culture and Anarchy

Themes: The role of culture in society, education, and morality.

•Characteristics:

1.Personal Reflection and Subjectivity:

Essays often blended personal experience with philosophical inquiry, reflecting the Romantic emphasis
on individuality and emotion.

Example: Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essays like Self-Reliance promote individualism and self-awareness,
resonating with the transcendentalist spirit.

2. Social and Political Critique:

Many essays tackled pressing social issues such as industrialization, class disparity, colonialism, and
slavery.

Example: John Stuart Mill’s The Subjection of Women and essays by Frederick Douglass critiqued
societal injustices and called for reform.

3. Focus on Nature and the Sublime:

Romantic essayists highlighted the beauty of nature and its spiritual significance, contrasting it with the
dehumanizing effects of industrialization.

Example: Essays by Henry David Thoreau, such as Walking, celebrate the natural world and promote
ecological awareness.

4. Reaction to Science and Progress:

As science advanced, essays reflected debates about progress, faith, and reason.

Example: Essays discussing Darwin’s On the Origin of Species sparked widespread intellectual discourse
about evolution and its implications.

Modern essay:

A modern essay is a form of written expression that has evolved to address

contemporary topics, ideas, and issues using a personal, reflective, or analytical approach. Unlike
traditional essays, which often adhered to rigid formal structures, modern essays are more flexible and
embrace individuality, creativity, and a conversational tone.

•Characteristics:

1. Flexibility in Structure

Modern essays do not strictly follow the rigid three-part structure of introduction, body, and conclusion.
While they maintain coherence and logical progression, the structure is often fluid, allowing the writer
to experiment with various forms, such as fragmented sections, subheadings, or narrative styles.

2. Conversational Tone
A hallmark of the modern essay is its conversational, informal tone. Writers aim to establish a
connection with readers, often breaking the "fourth wall" by directly addressing them or posing
rhetorical questions.

3. Experimentation with Style

Modern essayists frequently experiment with language, style, and format. They may use lyrical prose,
stream-of-consciousness writing, or hybrid forms that blur the lines between essays, poetry, and fiction.

4 Interdisciplinary Approach

Modern essays often draw from various disciplines, such as history, psychology, philosophy, and
literature, enriching their content and broadening the scope of the discussion.