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Explore the world of Neo-Classicism through this insightful guide, delving into the reverence for classical authors, imitation of forms, and aesthetic principles. Discover the hierarchical views of the world, emphasis on craft in poetry, and the unique nuances that set Neo-Classicism apart from the Renaissance, including the prevalence of satire. Unravel the complexities of this era's attitudes towards authority and pride, shaped by historical events like the English Civil War and the reign of Charles II.
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Why the name? • Reverence for classical authors • Imitation of classical forms • Use of aesthetic principles from classical authors
Views of the world • Hierarchical: Great Chain of Being • Humans in the middle • Especially prominent sin, therefore: pride.
View of poetry • Emphasis on craft • Decorum • Poetry is mimesis • Serves public function • Poets represent “nature” (what is permanently true) • Tends to depict universals & abstractions
Different from the Renaissance: • New (old) forms prominent • Prosody favors heroic couplets • Dominant mode is satire
Satire complicates things: • Fits emphasis on pride, but… • Mock epic, for example: violates decorum? • In general, double-edged; undercuts certitude • Complex attitude towards authority • Fits the middle rungs on the Chain
Why, historically? Among the reasons: • English Civil War: Charles I executed 1649, restoration of Charles II 1660. • hence "Augustan": • reigned in ancient Rome after period of chaos • era of Virgil, Horace, Ovid • but Augustus was a tyrant