How does Arnold Define 18th-Century Poetry?

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How does Arnold define th-century poetry or literature Matthew Arnold in his essay The Study of Poetry talks about the poetry of the th century with both appreciation and criticism This period is popularly known as The Neo-classical Age - Arnold believes that this period in English literature was important but limited in terms of achieving true poetic greatness Let us look at the points to understand how Arnold defines th-century poetry or literature The Influence of Prose and Reason Arnold begins by highlighting that the th centuries were dominated by prose and reason People of this age value logic balance and clear writing above all This focus on reason shaped both prose and poetry Arnold writes We are to regard Dryden as the puissant and glorious founder Pope as the splendid high priest of our age of prose and reason Arnold thinks their poetry is more like prose good

for logic but not for expressing deep feelings Lack of High Seriousness One of Arnold s strongest criticisms of th-century poetry is its lack of high seriousness High seriousness means that the best poems talk about serious and deep topics in a way that makes us think and feel He states The accent of high seriousness born of absolute sincerity is what gives to such verse its power In his view poets like Dryden and Pope fail to deliver profound messages about life It reduces the lasting value of their poetry Skilled in Form but Lack of Emotion Arnold admits that th-century poets were very skilled in the way they wrote Their technique was strong but their poems did not have the deep feelings found in other poets He gives the example of Pope s verse He notes that Pope s poetry does not have the deep poetic view of life that great poetry needs In simple words Arnold thinks the th century was good at making clear balanced writing but it did not reach the highest levels of poetry It lacked deep emotions and important ideas that make poetry timeless and classic

The Study of Poetry

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How does Arnold Define 18th-Century Poetry?

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Matthew Arnold

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