Neoclassicism

Time of neoclassicism can be classified into two groups, earlier part of the seventeenth century and later part of the eighteenth century. I am not an expert of English literature but rather studying neoclassicism and romanticism from the critic’s point of view. Neoclassicism in literature is also known as the age of reason because during this period most of the classical and philosophical works of philosophers were translated. It is also known as age of social reform in literature and its concern for social reality. I am also reading translated works of Aristotle these days which help me to better understand criticism of neoclassicism. Giorgio Valla translated Aristotle's Poetics into Latin before the beginning of this era. (Neoclassicism) After that John Dryden (1631-1700) translated most of the classics, becoming known for his aeneid (1697). After him Samuel Johnson (1709-84) also contributed to the growth of neoclassicism by translating classics. During this era Writers turned from coining new words to scientifically regularizing vocabulary and grammar. Complex metaphorical language was clarified and simplified using fewer and more conventional vocabulary. Structures of language become more simple and unified.

Literary criticism during this era was also related with philosophy and its social implications. Matthew Arnold was a major critic during the end of this era. This also gave birth to the new literary criticism--Russian formalism. Scientific study of poetic classic literature became the central theme of neoclassicism during this era. Sharp philosophical wit in writing made this era world's greatest age of comedy and satire.

Next time will be back with more on neoclassicism and romanticism.

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