The Augustan Age || Historical and Cultural Context || Literary Characteristics || Writers & Works

The Augustan Age in English literature is a period that lasted from the late 17th century to the mid-18th century. It was a time of significant cultural, intellectual, and literary achievement. The period is named after the Roman Emperor Augustus, who was known for his political and cultural reforms. The Augustan Age in England was marked by a similar desire for order, reason, and social harmony.
Let's take a closer look at some of the key features and literary works of the Augustan Age.
The Augustan Age: Historical and Cultural Context
A. The Restoration Period (1660-1689)
The restoration of the monarchy under Charles II
The rise of scientific inquiry, reason, and empiricism
The growth of trade, commerce, and wealth in England
B. The Glorious Revolution (1688-1689)
The overthrow of James II and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy
The rise of Whig political ideology and the idea of individual rights and freedoms
C. The Age of Enlightenment (1685-1815)
The rise of reason, rationalism, and scientific inquiry
The belief in the perfectibility of human nature and society
The growth of literary and cultural institutions, such as coffeehouses, salons, and literary societies
II. Literary Characteristics of the Augustan Age
A. Neoclassicism
The use of classical models and forms, such as the epic, ode, and satire
The emphasis on reason, order, and balance in literature
The rejection of excess, emotion, and irregularity in literature
B. Satire
The use of irony, wit, and humor to criticize human follies and vices
The aim of social reform and moral improvement
Examples of Augustan Age satire include Jonathan Swift's "A Modest Proposal" and Alexander Pope's "The Rape of the Lock."
C. Epistolary Fiction
The use of letters as a literary form
The exploration of social and psychological themes through personal correspondence
Examples of Augustan Age epistolary fiction include Samuel Richardson's "Pamela" and "Clarissa."
D. The Rise of the Novel
The development of the novel as a literary genre
The exploration of social and psychological themes through fictional narratives
Examples of Augustan Age novels include Daniel Defoe's "Robinson Crusoe" and Henry Fielding's "Tom Jones."
III. Key Writers of the Augustan Age
Let's take a closer look at some of the key writers and works of the Augustan Age.
John Dryden
John Dryden was an important writer of the Augustan Age. He was a poet, playwright, and literary critic, and his works were characterized by their clarity, elegance, and neoclassical style. Some of his most famous works include:
Absalom and Achitophel: This epic poem, which was published in 1681, is a political satire that deals with the Exclusion Crisis of the late 17th century. It is a witty and insightful work that showcases Dryden's skill as a satirist.
The Conquest of Granada: This play, which was first performed in 1670, is a historical drama that deals with the Spanish conquest of Granada. It is a neoclassical work that emphasizes the importance of order, balance, and clarity in drama.
An Essay of Dramatic Poesy: This essay, which was published in 1668, is a meditation on the nature of drama and the role of the playwright. It is a neoclassical work that emphasizes the importance of following classical models in drama.

Alexander Pope
Alexander Pope was one of the most important writers of the Augustan Age. He was a poet, essayist, and translator, and his works were characterized by their wit, satire, and neoclassical style. Some of his most famous works include:
The Rape of the Lock: This mock-epic poem tells the story of a young woman whose lock of hair is stolen by a suitor. It is a witty and satirical work that pokes fun at the vanity and social customs of the time.
An Essay on Criticism: This essay, which was published in 1711, is a meditation on the nature of criticism and the role of the poet. It is a neoclassical work that emphasizes the importance of order, balance, and clarity in literature.
The Dunciad: This satirical poem, which was published in 1728, is a scathing attack on the literary and intellectual mediocrity of the time. It is a complex and sophisticated work that showcases Pope's skill as a satirist.
Jonathan Swift
Jonathan Swift was another important writer of the Augustan Age. He was a satirist, essayist, and novelist, and his works were characterized by their wit, irony, and political commentary. Some of his most famous works include:
Gulliver's Travels: This novel, which was published in 1726, tells the story of Lemuel Gulliver, a ship's surgeon who travels to various imaginary lands. It is a satirical work that critiques the political and social customs of the time.
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