105 - The Renaissance of English Drama in the Elizabethan age

Assignment 105 : The Renaissance of English Drama in the Elizabethan Age


This blog is part of an assignment for the paper 105A - History of English Literature – From 1350 to 1900, Sem - 1, 2023.

Table of Contents:-

Personal Information
Assignment Details
Abstract
Keywords
Introduction
The Renaissance of English Drama in the Elizabethan Age
Elizabethan Age,
William Shakespeare,
Drama,
Classical influence
Conclusion
References

Personal Information:-

Personal Information:-
Name:-Chavada Nanda
Batch:- M.A. Sem 1 (2023-2024)
Enrollment Number:-5108230012
E-mailAddress:-nandachavada@gmail.com
Roll Number:- 23

Assignment Details:

Topic:- The Renaissance of English Drama in the Elizabethan Age
Paper & subject code:- 105A - History of English Literature – From 1350 to
1900 & 22396
Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU,Bhavnagar
Date of Submission:- 01 December,2023

Abstract : 

Here, explores the Elizabethan Age, a period intricately connected to the development of English literature. Focusing on the literary characteristics of the era, it delves into religious toleration, social contentment, and the prevailing enthusiasm that shaped the cultural landscape. The primary emphasis, however, is on the dramatic arts, considering the religious origins of drama and the subsequent evolution of Miracle, Mystery, Morality, and Interlude plays. The narrative extends to the influential figures of the time, particularly William Shakespeare, and his significant contributions to English literature. The four distinct periods of Shakespeare's career are outlined, showcasing the evolution of his writing style. Finally, a list of major dramatists of the Elizabethan Age is presented, highlighting their collective impact on shaping the artistic period.

Keywords:

Elizabethan Age, Renaissance, William Shakespeare, Drama, Miracle plays, Mystery plays, Morality plays, Interludes, English literature, Dramatic unities, University wits, Playwrights, Literary characteristics, Classical influence

Introduction:

The Elizabethan age can be viewed as a period in which the progress of national life is closely entwined with the evolution of national literature.

"The first creative period of English Literature"

The Elizabethan age is also known as the age of William Shakespeare. Because he was the dominant figure of the Elizabethan age in literary terms, it is called the period of Renaissance. The term ‘Renaissance’ means rebirth or revival of Greek and Italian culture, literature, art, learning etc. 

it was an age of drama therefore, it is necessary to discuss the development of drama in Elizabethan age

Origin of Drama:

During the renaissance, many types of literature has produced, like, The New Classicism, The New Romanticism, translations, spirit of independence, the development of drama, the popularity of poetry and prose and novel.

As per W. J. Long,

"Drama is but an old story retold to the eye, a story put into action by living performers, who for the movement "make believe" or imagine themselves to be the old heroes"

 Different kinds of poetries were produced like, dramatic poetry, lyrical poetry, descriptive and narrative poetry religious and satirical poetry.

Literary characteristics:

1. Religious Toleration:

2. Social contentment:

3. Enthusiasm:

4. The Drama:

1. Religious Toleration:

Elizabethan found that the England is divided is in two parts, North was of Catholics and southern countries were of Protestants. Elizabethan has favoured both religious parties and for the first time Catholics and Protestants were acting together as trusted counsellors of a great self-governing nation. This environment has united all the Englishmen. For the first time the question of religious tolerance seems to be settled, and the mind of man, freed from the religious fears and turned into other forms of activity.

With religion tolerance and freedom of thinking, Englishmen were ready to have the taste of literature. Great writers emerge from this freedom and inspiration.

2. Social contentment:

This was a time of satisfaction, because people were getting employments. The development of towns and in manufacturing, gave employment to those who was unemployed and discontented. Incensement in trading business brought wealth in England. Rich people were in support to help poor and were providing them employment. This new attitude of living life and wealth has also helped in new literary activities.

3. Enthusiasm:

People were getting rich and were getting employments. They were happy and this happiness has filled them with the joy of living life.  Bacon has said,

"I have taken all knowledge of my province"

There was a flow of imagination and thinking in a positive manner. Poets of this age were creating poems which became young forever. Cabot, Drake, Frobisher, Gilbert, Raleigh, Willoughby and Hawkins explored new earth to men's eyes. Dreams and deed were going parallel in the age of Elizabethan. People were dreaming bigger and also working on the dreams. (W. J. Long)

4. The Drama:

The Age of Elizabethan can be considered as the age of Drama. There were also poets life Edmund Spenser and Shakespeare, but the plays of Christopher Marlow and Shakespeare were more famous. There was a dominant position of the drama and play on the mind of people. Neither poetry, nor the story can express the whole man but drama can. By the writing of Shakespeare, drama is still alive after 400 years of his writing. (Long)

Development of drama

The drama had a religious origin in Greece. Then it started to rise in England. The object of the first play was to emphasize moral lesson by showing the reward of the good and the punishment of the evil doer. In England the religious plays where more famous, and started to perform on the stage in the sixteenth century. The theme of the drama was religious, that’s why the existence of miracle and mystery plays can be observed

Now, elaborate these plays in detail.

Miracle plays:

Miracle plays are basically religious stories about the lives of saints and the amazing things they did. These plays focus on the experiences and sacrifices of saints. The name "Miracle" was used for all plays based on stories from the Bible. In England, these plays became more and more popular over four centuries after the first recorded one. The Normans probably brought these religious plays to England, but it's likely they started here even before the Normans arrived.

Mystery plays:

The word mystery refers to the plays, which represents the life scenes from the life of Christ. In England Mystery plays used for distinguishing different class of plays, which were not religious.

Among these both kinds of plays, Miracle was famous and the first Miracle play was "Ludus de Sancta Katharina" in Dunstable. Four centuries after the Miracle plays got fame and popularity. From the starting plays were allowed to perform in church because of religious purpose but after that people have started enjoying it and then it was for the purpose of entertainment and then it was replaced by the Elizabethan Drama.

The Miracle plays started taking popularity and then divided into two parts,

1. At Christmas: plays on birth of Christ

2. At Easter: plays on death and triumph of Christ

This cycle of drama represents human life from birth to death. The authors of Miracles were priests and their chosen assistants and they were carefully selected and trained. There were movable theatres, each of these theatres consisted of a two-story platform, set on wheels. The lower story was the dressing room for actors and the upper story was the stage proper.

The plays were written according to general outline of the Bible stories, no change was tolerated, the only variety was in new songs and jokes, and in the pranks of devil.

Morality Plays:

Morality plays are allegorical performances where virtues and vices take on human-like forms on stage. The central character, such as Everyman, represents the protagonist, while Satan personifies vice, and God or Christ embodies virtue, with death serving as the consequence of wrongdoing. The increasing popularity of morality plays illustrates their moral messages. The characters in these plays are allegorical figures like Life, Death, repentance, Goodness, Love, Greed, and various virtues and vices. Morality plays can be seen as a dramatic equivalent to the allegorical poetry seen in works like the Romance of the Rose. Many of these old morality plays have unknown origins and dates, but notable authors include John Skelton, who wrote "Magnificence," and Sir David Lindsay, both known for their high-quality contributions to this genre.

Interludes Plays:

Interludes were brief entertainments typically inserted within longer plays or amid other festivities. Primarily aimed at entertaining through humor or farce, these interludes originated from a sense of humor, with John Heywood elevating them to a distinct comedic form.

The growth of drama also saw the emergence of the first tragedy, "Gorboduc," a collaborative effort by Thomas Sackville and Thomas Norton. Though written in 1561, it premiered on stage in 1562.

Classical influence, stemming from Mystery and Miracle plays, significantly contributed to the development of English drama.

William Shakespeare, a prominent figure in English dramatists during the Elizabethan Age, was born on April 26, 1564. Although traditionally baptized on the third day after birth, April 23 is considered his actual birth date. In 1582, he married Anne Hathway and later moved to London around 1587 to pursue a career as an actor, which didn't work out. Instead, he became a renowned playwright, creating dramas in four distinct periods.

First Period (1590-1595): This phase was characterized by youthful experimentation and imagination, featuring rhymed couplets in addition to blank verse. Some plays from this period include "Henry VI," "Richard II," "King John," "Comedy of Errors," "Love’s Labor’s Lost," and "Two Gentlemen of Verona."

Second Period (1595-1600): Marked by rapid growth and artistic development, this period showcased improved plots and a deeper understanding of human nature. Notable plays from this era include "Romeo and Juliet," "A Midsummer Night’s Dream," "The Merchant of Venice," "Henry IV," "As You Like It," "Much Ado About Nothing," and "The Merry Wives of Windsor."

Third Period (1600-1607): This period was characterized by gloom and depression but saw the full maturity of Shakespeare's powers. Some of his greatest tragedies, including "Hamlet," "Othello," "Macbeth," "King Lear," "Julius Caesar," "Twelfth Night," and "Antony and Cleopatra," were produced during this time.

Fourth Period: This period marked the restoration of serenity and calm after the storm, representing the last years of his artistic work. Plays from this period include "Coriolanus," "Cymbeline," "The Winter’s Tale," and "The Tempest."

Shakespeare's contributions to English literature are immense, with his works continuing to be celebrated for their depth, insight into human nature, and enduring relevance.

Here see major dramatists of this Age

Shakespeare, Ben Jonson, Marlowe ,John Lyly ,George Peele, Robert Greene, Thomas kyd, Thomas Nashe, Thomas Lodge, Beaumont, Fletcher. etc..

So, in simple terms, the Artistic Period is when they focused on showing real life, with funny and serious plays.

Classical Unities :

In the past, plays followed strict rules called "dramatic unities," where everything had to happen in one place, within a short time, and with a single storyline. No violence was allowed on stage, and a clear distinction existed between funny and serious plays.

English drama changed this. Instead of sticking to these rules, they started showing whole lives in a single play. They introduced different characters, places, and timelines. There were two groups in English drama: the university wits and popular playwrights. They wanted to present real-life experiences, so they ignored the old rules.

The first English plays were romantic, and the first theater, called "The Theatre," was built in 1576 in London. Before Shakespeare, there were many playwrights like Kyd, Nash, Lyly, Peele, and Marlowe. They built the foundation for English drama, and then Shakespeare became a famous playwright.

words :  1983

Image :2

work cited : 

“Jacobean Literature.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc.,  https://www.britannica.com/topic/Elizabethan-Age Accessed 25 Nov. 2023. 

https://owlcation.com/humanities/Origin-of-Drama-in-English-Literature

Whipple, E. P. “E. P. Whipple.” The Atlantic, Atlantic Media Company, www.theatlantic.com/author/e-p-whipple/. Accessed 25 Nov. 2023. 

By. “Notes on Origin of Drama in English Literature .” All About English Literature, 14 Feb. 2022, www.eng-literature.com/2021/01/origin-drama-english-literature.html.

“Francis Bacon Quote.” https://libquotes.com/francis-bacon/quote/lbs8b7u.Accessed 25 Nov. 2023.

104 -Assignment "Lord Alfred Tennyson: The Victorian Era Wordsmith"

Assignment 104 : "Lord Alfred Tennyson: The Victorian Era Wordsmith"

This blog is part of an assignment for the paper 104 - Literature of Victorians, Sem - 1, 2023.

"Lord Alfred Tennyson: The Victorian Era Wordsmith"

Table of Contents:-

Personal Information

Assignment Details

Abstract

Keywords

Introduction

Alfred Lord Tennyson: A Life Woven in Verse

Conclusion

References

Personal Information:-

Name:-Chavada Nanda

Batch:- M.A. Sem 1 (2023-2024)

Enrollment Number:-5108230012

E-mailAddress:-nandachavada@gmail.com

Roll Number:- 23

Assignment Details:-

Topic:- "Lord Alfred Tennyson: The Victorian Era Wordsmith"

Paper & subject code:-104 - Literature of the Victorians & 22395

Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU, Bhavnagar

Date of Submission:- 01 December,2023

Abstract:

This exploration delves into the transformative period from Queen Victoria's ascent to the throne in 1837 until 1900, characterized by both progress and unrest. The departure from romantic ideals marked the emergence of a "modern period of progress and unrest," witnessed in the realms of science, arts, and societal dynamics. Focused on the poetic journey of William Wordsworth and Alfred Lord Tennyson, it navigates the nuanced landscape of shifting sentiments, societal challenges, and a transition from romantic fervor to a prosaic outlook. Tennyson's life, intricately woven in verse, reflects the multifaceted facets of the Victorian age, encompassing personal struggles, societal commentaries, and a profound exploration of the human experience.

Keywords:

Victorian era, Romanticism, Progress, Social Unrest, William Wordsworth, Alfred Lord Tennyson, Poet Laureate, Prosaic, Material Development, Moral Stability, Imagination, Scientific Themes, In Memoriam.

Introduction :

The age that commenced with Queen Victoria ascending to the throne in 1837 and extended until 1900 was marked by significant developments, both in terms of progress and unrest. This era, which began around 1830, witnessed a departure from the romantic ideals that characterized the earlier period, earning the moniker, "The modern period of progress and unrest."

During this time, there was substantial advancement in both science and the arts. However, these strides in material and intellectual pursuits were juxtaposed with a backdrop of social unrest. The romanticism that defined the previous age had waned, making way for a period that sought progress amid societal challenges.

One prominent figure of the Romantic era, William Wordsworth, found himself grappling with the profound loss of fellow poets. The deaths of his contemporaries left him as the lone survivor among the once vibrant group of romantic poets. In expressing his grief, Wordsworth penned poignant lines that reflect not only personal sorrow but also a broader lamentation for the passing of an era:

"How fast has brother followed brother,

From sunshine to the sunless land!"

These lines capture the somber reality of the time, where the interconnectedness and camaraderie among the Romantic poets were disrupted by the inexorable march of mortality. The sorrow expressed by Wordsworth is not solely confined to personal loss; it also resonates with the broader "Prosaic" element of the age. In simpler terms, this period was characterized by a shift toward a more practical, realistic, and prosaic outlook. The romantic idealism that had once flourished gave way to a focus on material development, along with a desire for societal peace and the cultivation of moral instincts.

The term "Prosaic" here encapsulates the transition from the poetic and imaginative fervor of the Romantic age to a more pragmatic and realistic approach. The optimism of progress coexisted with the challenges of societal unrest, reflecting the complex tapestry of an era undergoing significant transformations. It was a time when the pursuit of material advancements was intricately interwoven with a yearning for moral stability, creating a nuanced landscape of progress and unrest.

Alfred Lord Tennyson: A Life Woven in Verse

Alfred Tennyson, one of twelve children born to the lovely couple Tennyson and Elizabeth, left an indelible mark on Victorian poetry. His mother, described as a pretty and sweet-natured lady, became a source of inspiration, culminating in a touching tribute in the concluding part of his poem 'Princess' (Tennyson).

At the tender age of twelve, Tennyson was sent to his grandmother's house for schooling, an experience marred by unpleasant encounters with fellow students and the school environment. Quickly retreating from this less-than-ideal situation, he embarked on his university journey. At the university, he earned favor among students for his poetic talents, a success marked by the popularity of his poem, "Poem by two Brothers" (Tennyson).

The turning point in Tennyson's life came in 1850, following the death of the renowned poet William Wordsworth. Tennyson ascended to the prestigious position of poet laureate, signaling a new chapter in his life. Despite thirteen years of love for Elizabeth, poverty had prevented their union. However, with the newfound status of poet laureate, Tennyson overcame financial constraints, marrying Elizabeth. In celebration of this union, he penned a heartfelt poem dedicated to his wife:

"Her, whose gentle will has changed my fate, And made my life perfumed altar flame" (Tennyson).

This poetic expression not only conveyed Tennyson's deep affection but also marked a period of contentment in his life, coinciding with his role as the official poet of the nation.

"After the Romantic era, the flame of romance in literature flickered out with the passing of great poets like Wordsworth, Byron, Keats, Shelley, and Coleridge. The Victorian age leaned more towards prose than poetry, featuring only two prominent poets, Robert Browning and Alfred Tennyson. If we dive into Tennyson's poetry, we discover a blend of romantic qualities: the sweet melody akin to Keats, the fanciful imagination reminiscent of Coleridge, the creative fantasy akin to Scott and Shelley, and the straightforward simplicity echoing Wordsworth.

Tennyson's works continue to be hailed as the finest creations of the Victorian era."

"At the age of eighty-one, Tennyson penned a poignant poem, urging us to look beyond the limits, to follow the gleam, symbolizing his life's struggles and quest for something more:

'Over the margin,

After it, follow it,

Follow the gleam’

Another notable work, 'Maud,' tells a tale of murder and recovery, holding a special place in Tennyson's heart. One of its most famous lines resonates with readers: "Come into the garden, Maud" Tennyson's poetic canvas beautifully unfolds with lines like "Come into the garden, Maud," inviting readers into a metaphorical garden of emotions. His portrayal of women is a recurring theme, evident in poems like "Mariana," where the theme of 'Tragic death' looms large as the protagonist yearns, "I would that, I were dead"

In "The Lady of Shallot," Tennyson paints a vivid picture of a woman cursed and imprisoned in a tower, casting her as pure and divine, reminiscent of an Anglo-Saxon woman. The motif of 'imprisoned women' echoes in his poetry. In "Princess, a medley,Tennyson delves into questions about a woman's sphere and rights, providing thought-provoking answers.

The quoted lines "He put our lives so far apart We cannot hear each other speak" are from Alfred Lord Tennyson's poem "In Memoriam A.H.H.," specifically from Canto 82. The poem is a lengthy elegy written in memory of Tennyson's friend, Arthur Henry Hallam.

Tennyson's poetry bears the fingerprints of scientific fascination, reflecting his keen interest in the imaginative and technological advancements of the Victorian era. In a nod to the scientific revolutions of his time, including Darwin's theories on the origin of species and geological discoveries, Tennyson weaves scientific themes into his verses. For instance, in "The Lotus Eater," he presents an array of different flowers, showcasing his admiration for the wonders of the natural world. Meanwhile, in the significant poem "Crossing the Bar," Tennyson expresses the hope to meet his pilot face to face in the afterlife, displaying a blend of spiritual and scientific sentiments

As the poet laureate, Tennyson felt a responsibility to capture the essence of London and his country in his poetry. In "The Charge of the Light Brigade," he vividly portrays the war and the sacrifices made by soldiers, providing a poignant commentary on the societal context of the time. Tennyson's connection with ancient worlds is evident in "Idyll of the King," where he idealizes Greece and Rome, presenting King Arthur as the epitome of a perfect king.

However, the pinnacle of Tennyson's contribution to the Victorian age is arguably "In Memoriam," a masterpiece where he pays homage to his friend Hallam, who passed away at the tender age of twenty-two. Lines like "One of the few immortal names, Who did not born to die" reflect Tennyson's deep grief and the enduring nature of human memory. The famous line "Tis better to have loved and lost, Than never to have loved at all" is often misconstrued as a sentiment of lost love, but it is, in fact, a dedication from Tennyson to Hallam, encapsulating the theme of love's connection to human immortality

Conclusion:

The Victorian era, under Queen Victoria's reign, witnessed a significant departure from romantic ideals toward a more pragmatic worldview. This shift is eloquently reflected in the poignant poetry of William Wordsworth and Alfred Lord Tennyson, who grappled with personal losses and societal upheavals. Tennyson's verses, woven with themes of love, tragedy, and a keen interest in scientific progress, encapsulate the complexities of the era. As the flame of romanticism dimmed in literature, Tennyson's enduring works emerged as a testament to this transformative period.

His life, intricately entwined with verse, serves as a rich tapestry depicting the multifaceted aspects of Victorian society. Themes of societal commentary, the pursuit of love, and a fascination with scientific advancements underscore Tennyson's contributions. His enduring creations stand as a reflection of the intricate balance between optimism and challenges that defined the Victorian age. Through the exploration of these poetic voices, we gain valuable insights into the nuanced dynamics that shaped this era and the delicate interplay of progress and unrest during a time of profound societal transformation.

Words- 1731

Images - 1

References :

“Alfred, Lord Tennyson .” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., 10 Oct. 2023, www.britannica.com/biography/Alfred-Lord-Tennyson.

“Alfred, Lord Tennyson: Quotes.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., www.britannica.com/quotes/Alfred-Lord-Tennyson.Accessed 24 Nov. 2023.

Oxford University Press. "Wordsworth, William." Oxford Dictionary of National Biography, Oxford University Press, n.d., https://www.oxforddnb.com/display/10.1093/ref:odnb/9780198614128.001.0001/odnb-9780198614128-e-36652.

Peterson, Linda H. “Tennyson and the Ladies.” Victorian Poetry, vol. 47, no. 1, 2009, pp. 25–43. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/40347424. Accessed 24 Nov. 2023.

Peterson, Linda H. “Tennyson and the Ladies.” Victorian Poetry, vol. 47, no. 1, 2009, pp. 25–43. JSTOR,https://www.jstor.org/stable/40347424 Accessed 24 Nov. 2023.

Alfred, L. T. (n.d.). Ulysses by Alfred, lord tennyson. Poetry Foundation. https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45392/ulysses

Alfred, Lord Tennyson. “The Charge of the Light Brigade by Alfred, Lord...” Poetry Foundation, Poetry Foundation,

www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45319/the-charge-of-the-light-brigade.Accessed 24 Nov. 2023.

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103 ASSIGNMENT STUDY OF P.B SHELLY

Assignment 103 :

This blog is part of an assignment for the paper 103 - Litrature of The Romantics, 

Sem - 1, 2023.

  "In the Shadows of Genius: Tracing the Footsteps of Percy Bysshe Shelley"

Table of Contents:-

Personal Information

Assignment Details

Abstract

Keywords

Introduction

Percy Bysshe Shelley – Early Life

First Writings and University

Political, Religious and Ethical Views 

Conclusion

References

Personal Information:-

Name:-Chavada Nanda

Batch:- M.A. Sem 1 (2023-2024)

Enrollment Number:-5108230012

E-mailAddress:-nandachavada@gmail.com

Roll Number:- 23

Assignment Details:
Topic:-"In the Shadows of Genius: Tracing the Footsteps of Percy Bysshe Shelley"
Paper & subject code:- 103 - Literature of the Romantics & 22394
Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU, Bhavnagar
Date of Submission:- 01 December,2023

Abstract :
here, The life, works, and ideologies of Percy Bysshe Shelley, a prominent Romantic poet. It delves into his early life, education, vegetarianism, his major works, political, religious, and ethical views. Shelley's notable works such as "Ozymandias," "Ode to the West Wind," and "The Mask of Anarchy" are highlighted, along with his relationships, including his marriage to Mary Shelley. The narrative culminates with Shelley's untimely death in a boating accident and the unique circumstance of his heart's resistance to cremation.
Keywords:
Percy Bysshe Shelley, Romantic poet, early life, education, vegetarianism, political views, religious views, notable works, Mary Shelley, death, boating accident, heart, cremation.

             "In the Shadows of Genius: Tracing the Footsteps of Percy Bysshe Shelley

       Percy Bysshe Shelley

                   Percy Bysshe Shelley was a Romantic poet and is regarded as one of the greatest English poets of all time.

Percy Bysshe Shelley – Early Life

Percy Bysshe Shelley was born on 4 August 1792 at Field Place, Broadridge Heath, near Horsham, West Sussex, England.

He was the eldest of seven children, born to Sir Timothy Shelley (1753–1844), a Whig Member of Parliament for Horsham from 1790 to 1792 and for Shoreham between 1806 and 1812, and his wife, Elizabeth Pilfold (1763–1846), the daughter of a successful butcher.

His younger siblings were John (1806–1866), Margaret (1801–1887), Hellen (1799–1885), Mary (1797–1884), Hellen (1796–1796, died in infancy) and Elizabeth (1794–1831). His childhood was very happy, and he was particularly close to his mother and his sisters. As a young boy, he was encouraged to hunt, fish and ride.

Shelley’s second wife was Mary Shelley, famous for her novel Frankenstein. Together, the couple had four children, and Shelley fathered at least two other children with his first wife. He died in a boating accident in 1822, at the age of 29.

  "In the Shadows of Genius: Tracing the Footsteps of Percy Bysshe Shelley"

His vegetarianism has been said to be very modern, especially as he argued for it’s health benefits, the alleviation of animal suffering, the inefficient use of agricultural land involved in farming, and the economic inequality resulting from the commercialization of animal food production. Shelley even inspired the founding of the Vegetarian Society in England (1847).

Education:

Shelley was sent to a day school run by the vicar of Warnham church at the age of six, where he displayed an impressive memory and gift for languages.

At ten years old, he enrolled at the Syon House Academy of Brentford, Middlesex, where his cousin Thomas Medwin was a pupil. Shelley was very unhappy here, being subjected to bullying and suffering from nightmares and hallucinations. He was particularly interested in science, often experimenting with gunpowder, acids and electricity.

In 1804, two years later, Shelley entered Eton College. He was bullied here too, and often displayed violent rages that earned him the nickname “Mad Shelley”. His interest in science continued, somewhat dangerously, and led him to giving an electric shock to a master, blowing up a tree stump with gunpowder and attempting to raise spirits with occult rituals.

His poems contained the melodious quality of Romanticism and a different point of view towards the nature than Wordsworth had. While he did not achieve fame in his lifetime, his radical views on politics, religion and social topics ensured his poetry was recognized following his death, and has influenced many poets since, including Browning, Hardy and Yeats.

First Writings and University

Towards his senior years at Eton, Shelley gained a reputation as a classical scholar. In his last term, he wrote his first novel Zastrozzi, and developed a small following among fellow students.

In October 1810, Shelley enrolled in University College, Oxford in October 1810. Just prior to this, Shelley completed Original Poetry by Victor and Cazire (written with his sister Elizabeth), the verse melodrama The Wandering Jew and the gothic novel St. Irvine; or, The Rosicrucian: A Romance (published 1811).

At Oxford, he attended only a few lectures, instead preferring to stay in his room conducting science experiments. It was at university that he met Thomas Jefferson Hogg, who became his closest friend. Hogg influenced Shelley’s views, and he developed strong radical and anti-Christian views. These views were dangerous in the reactionary political climate during Britain’s war with Napoleonic France, and Shelley’s father warned him against Hogg’s influence.

Shelley did not listen to his father’s advice, and in the winter of 1810–1811, published a series of anonymous political poems and tracts: Posthumous Fragments of Margaret Nicholson, The Necessity of Atheism (written in collaboration with Hogg) and A Poetical Essay on the Existing State of Things. Shelley mailed The Necessity of Atheism to all the bishops and heads of colleges at Oxford. He was then called to appear before the college’s fellows, including the Dean, George Rowley.

However, he refused to answer questions about whether he was the author of the pamphlet, and was expelled from Oxford on 25 March 1811, along with Hogg. When Shelley’s father heard of the expulsion, he threatened to cut all contact with Shelley unless he agreed to return home and study under tutors appointed by him. Shelley refused, and his relationship with his fathered suffered as a result.

“O world, O life, O time! On whose last step I climb,

Out of day and night, A joy has taken flight;”

Shelley’s best known works include "Queen Mab" (1813): Early philosophical poem. "Ozymandias" (1818): Renowned sonnet on transience. "Prometheus Unbound" (1820): Major lyrical drama. "Adonais" (1821): Elegy for John Keats. "A Defence of Poetry" (1821): Influential essay on poetry's role. As well as poetry, he wrote prose fiction and essays on political, social, and philosophical issues

Political, Religious and Ethical Views :

Political :

Shelley had radical political views and was influenced by thinkers such as Rousseau, Paine, Godwin, Wollstonecraft, and Leigh Hunt. He was an advocate for republicanism, parliamentary reform, the extension of the franchise, freedom of speech, an end to aristocratic and clerical privilege, more equal distribution of income and wealth, and Catholic Emancipation. Because of these views, he was placed under government surveillance at certain times.

His most famous political work was the poem Queen Mab, which included extensive notes on political themes.

Religious :

Shelley was an atheist and saw organized religion as inextricably linked to social oppression. He was influenced by the materialist arguments in Holbach’s Le Systems de la nature. Many of his works had to be edited before publication to reduce the risk of prosecution, and his pamphlet The Necessity of Atheism was withdrawn from sale soon after publication following a complaint from a priest. Another famous piece of work, Queen Mab includes criticisms of priesthood, Christianity and religion in general.

Violence :

Shelley was an advocate for nonviolence and believed that violent protests would increase the prospect of a military despotism. His thoughts on this were largely based on his reflections on the French Revolution and rise of Napoleon. However, he did support the 1820 armed rebellion against absolute monarchy in Spain, and the 1821 armed Greek uprising against Ottoman rule. Shelley’s poem “The Mask of Anarchy” explores his nonviolent views.

“A passionate dream, a straining after impossibilities,

a record of fond conjectures,

a confused embodying of vague abstraction.”

Shelley’s poetry soon gained a wider audience in radical and reformist circles. Queen Mab became popular with Owenists and Chartists, and Revolt of Islam influenced poets sympathetic to the workers’ movement such as Thomas Hood, Thomas Cooper and William Morris.

On 1 July, Shelley and Edward Williams sailed in Shelley’s new boat the Don Juan to Livorno where Shelley met Leigh Hunt and Byron in order to make arrangements for a new journal, The Liberal. After the meeting during his years in Italy. In 1819 he published his historical tragedy The Cenci and a poem against political tyranny, The Mask of Anarchy, inspired by the Peterloo Massacre. The publication of Prometheus Unbound in 1820 included many of the shorter lyric poems for which he is now best known, such as “Ode to the West Wind,” “The Cloud,” and “To a Sky-Lark.” Adonais, Shelley’s elegy for John Keats, and the autobiographical Epipsychidion were published in 1821. Hellas, inspired by the Greek struggle for independence from Turkey, was published in 1822, and was the last of Shelley’s works to appear in his lifetime.

             On 8 July 1822, Shelley’s boat was caught in a storm and he was drowned in the Bay of Spezia, along with his friend Edward Ellerker Williams and the cabin boy. Shelley’s body washed up on shore ten days later, and was buried nearby; the following month it was exhumed and burned. His ashes are buried in the Protestant Cemetery in Rome. Mary and Percy Florence returned to England in 1823, where she fought to publish Shelley’s works, an endeavor in which Sir Timothy thwarted her until 1839. She continued to write until her death in 1851.

Death:

On 8 July, Shelley, Williams and their boat boy sailed out of Livorno for Lerici. A few hours later, the Don Juan and its inexperienced crew were lost in a storm.

The vessel, an open boat, had been custom-built in Genoa for Shelley. Mary Shelley declared in her "Note on Poems of 1822" (1839) that the design had a defect and that the boat was never seaworthy. In fact the Don Juan was overmasted; the sinking was due to a severe storm and poor seamanship of the three men on board.

Shelley’s badly-decomposed body washed ashore at Viareggio ten days later and was identified by Trelawny from the clothing and a copy of Keats's Lamia in a jacket pocket. On 16 August, his body was cremated on a beach near Viareggio and the ashes were buried in the Protestant Cemetery of Rome.

Shelley’s Heart:

When Shelley’s body was cremated on the beach, his “unusually small” heart resisted burning, possibly due to calcification from an earlier tubercular infection. Trelawny gave the scorched heart to Hunt who preserved it in spirits of wine and refused to hand it over to Mary. He finally relented and the heart was eventually buried either at St. Peter’s Church, Bournemouth or in Christchurch Priory.

References :

Percy Bysshe Shelley - Poems, Books & Life - Biography, www.biography.com/authors-writers/percy-bysshe-shelley. Accessed 23 Nov. 2023.

https://www.nypl.org/sites/default/files/archivalcollections/pdf/ms_guide_shelley_p_b.pdf

“Percy Bysshe Shelley.” English History, Accessed 23 Nov. 2023., https://englishhistory.net/poets/percy-bysshe-shelley/.

102 - assignment THE RAPE OF THE LOCK

Assignment 102: "Thematic study of 'The Rape of the Lock'"

This blog is written as part of assignment of semester 1, assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad, Department of English, MKBU. In this blog I am going to discuss the "Thematic study of 'The Rape of the Lock'

Personal Information:-

Name:-Chavada Nanda

Batch:- M.A. Sem 1 (2023-2024)

Enrollment Number:-5108230012

E-mailAddress:-nandachavada@gmail.com

Roll Number:- 23

Assignment Details:-

Topic:"Thematic study of 'The Rape of the Lock'"

Paper No. : 102

Paper Name : Literature of Neo - classical Periods & 22393

Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU,Bhavnagar

Date of Submission:- 01 December 2023

Table of Contents:-

• Personal Information

• Assignment Details

• Abstract

• Keywords

• Introduction

• Themes

• Conclusion

• References

This blog is Assignment of paper no 102 Literature of the Neo classical period. This task is assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad sir H.O.D. of English Department M.K.B.U. in this blog I am going to discuss about thematic study of 'The Rape of the Lock'.

Introduction -

The poem 'The Rape of the Lock' published in 1712 and it was in 1714. This poem is a mock epic or mock heroic poem. This poem satirized the upper class in London at that time. The poem uses a heavy amount of satire, which is the use of , exaggeration, irony, humor, etc.

Alexander pope 'The Rape of the Lock' in particular way satirise in both way the obsession with physical appearance and trivial matters by the people of 18th century England. The title of the poem suggests what exactly happens in the poem.

This story is based on an incident about Lord Petre who had cut off a lock of Miss Annabella Fermor's hair and refused to return it and this incident affected two families. Pope told his friend spence,

" Desirable to write a poem to make a jest of it, and laugh them together again".

Pop wrote a poem at the request of his friend Joan Kargil Cargil. Pope produced a poem of two cantos in iambic pentameter couplets within a fortnight. Addison advised that the poem was "a delicious little thing''. Pope felt this thing in 1714 he expanded it to five cantos with many additional scenes and elaborate mock epic machinery of supernaturals.

Alexander Pope

Alexander pope is a great satirist of the 18th century along with John Dryden. and also he got the excellent skill of using the heroic complete in his poems.

He is known as one of the most correct and accurate poets of the English language in the world. He was a great follower of the great ancient masters of Greek and Rome, he also translated several works of ancient Masters into English language.

Alexander pope was born on 21 may 1688, His father was a London based merchant of Catholic faith. Alexander Pope has been the most representative poet of the 18th century. He is as representative of his age as Chaucer was of the late fourteenth century and Tennyson of the Victorian age that's why his age is known as the age of pope.

His most famous poem is 'The Rape of the Lock' it is as mirror of English society in 18th century. Leslie Stephen said -

"Reflects so clearly and completely the spirit of his own day as Popedoes ".

In his poem 'The Rape of the Lock' he reflects the life of fashionable aristocratic Society of his time this. This poem reflects the pleasure seeking life of fashionable beauty. It was the age that women had discorded all those normal values that give solidarity to society.

"The Rape of The Lock", which is a true masterpiece of light satire, amusing and good - tempered yet not without an element of serious social criticism. The whole poem depicts the rich, fashionable and idle society of Pope's time, with court as its center. In the elaborate style of the classical epic, he reduces it to absurdity. This is a cool, witty and detached, so that one sometimes wishes Popo would be angrier about the trivial society he describes. Anger alone however not enough to make good satire, any more than love alone enough is enough to make a good love poem.

Thematical study of 'The Rape of the Lock' :

The poem 'The Rape of the Lock' is a mock epic or mock heroic epic poem. This poem start with this words-

"WHAT dire offense amorous causes springs,

What mighty contests rise from trivial things,

I sing-This verse to Caryll, Muse! Is due,

This, even Belinda may vouchsafe to view,

Slight is the subject, but not so the praise,

If she inspire, and he approve my lays."

This is the opening line of the poem, and it refers to its themes like love, and that love affairs have many serious resentments like hatred, Bitterness, anger, dislike etc. Some of the major themes in 'The Rape of the Lock' are beauty, religion and morality, Pride, love, immorality and carefree of upper class, female desire and passion, gender role, and many more.

Here I am going to discuss particularly all these themes -

                        

 Themes : 

• Beauty
• Spiritual Ethics
• Immorality and Carefree Nature of Upper Class
• Female Desire and Passion
• Theme of Love
• Hubris and Self-Importance
• Roles Assigned by Society
• Women's Sensuality
• Man's Place and Purpose in the Universe
• Legitimacy

👉  Beauty💇🏻-

       In 'The Rape of the Lock' Alexander pope highlighting societies to centralizes on beauty and appearance. This poem centers on the character Belinda, a beautiful woman who lost her lock of hair to a nobleman who is known as Baron. When this poem starts and goes on it becomes sillier and sillier and characters fight over the lock. In this poem Clarissa's speech is the most important thing in the poem. Pope added Claroliss as speech into the poem, she argues that women spend much time on their looks rather than thinking to become a better person and serve society.

The main important character of this poem is Belinda, she looks beautiful and two locks in which she has styled her hair look attractive, and she dressed herself with many beauty products, these are lines to appreciate her beauty -

“Now awful beauty puts on all its arms;

The fair each moment rises in her charms,

Sees by degrees a purer blush arise,

And keener lightning quickens in her eyes.”

Byron eyes them in admiration; he has resolved to take one for himself either by force or by theft. When Byron cuts off her look she shouts at him to return the lock, but the lock is gone unlike every other lock. However this one will never grow gray but will burn brightly in the sky as Belinda's spectacular beauty. It is true that men are caught in the trap of women’s fair curls. A beautiful woman can attract a man with a single hair. According to this thing Pope writes-

“And beauty draws us with a single hair.”

Outer beauty is a temporary thing, when a woman gets old her outer beauty fades but her inner beauty stays with her until her death. Pope's opinion that self obsession is useless and nonsense. In this poem the Pope's conclusion suggested that true beauty has some value, but if it becomes the subject of poetry, it becomes an immoral thing.

           In our modern time there are many beauty contests organized and many women participate in it. That most of the contest is based on women's quality of thoughts and their inner beauty. The winner is judged by her quality of thoughts, participants never judge by just their outer look like who has the most beautiful white face ? Who has beautiful lips ? Who has idealized a beautiful figure? Never contestants judged by these things.

  👉  Religion and Morality-

           In 'The Rape of the Lock' religion and morality is important themes. Pop's poem is full of moral questions about religious culture of that time in the 18th century. When this poem was written England's last Catholic Monarch had been deposed and England once again became a Protestant nation. Most criticize catholics, because they believed that catholics had trade from the worship of God. The Pope belongs to a Catholic family and protestant made their life difficult to own a land or live in London. The Pope faces many to live there.

👉  Immorality and carefree nature of upper class.

In this poem pop portrays the upper class society and people of the upper class are busy in pursuit of their own goals through trivial and vain. He put the matter that careless and casual response of high society is dangerous, he portrays the upper class people just think about themselves and they have obsessions of beauty. They just care about their personal life, luxurious, pomp and vanity and they have interest in flirting gossip and card games. They live a life that is matchless to the ordinary and common people. In this poem Pope makes fun of their stupid deeds and self obsessed attention, he has discussed that this society just leads to immorality and distraction between humans. The Pope thought that wealth is not a permanent thing. At the end when men died they went empty handed, they can't take their wealth with them.

👉Female desire and passion

In this poem the pope has made fun of women, because in this poem women just think about their outer beauty. He presents Belinda like an epic heroine. According to him this heroic epic poem is Belinda's maid hood and according to him women are more self conscious than men. The most important part of this poem is Clarissa's speech. Her speech is a fine example and it feels with the situation with a smile rather than doing anything to change it. In this poem women are portrayed as being more controlled by society. It is obvious that if men and women are attractive, well dressed put together. They get attracted to each other , and have dreams about one another, and maybe fall in love with each other. But those who are not attractive also have a good heart, they also could have true love.

In this poem there was no way for anyone to express their feelings and any other thing.

👉 Themes of Love -

           In this poem there was not any kind of importance for love. According to Alexander Pope the upper class people only believe in victory and defeat, there is no value for love. This poem portrays Belinda's character as a strong modern woman character. She loves her out of beauty more than anything. There was a character Baron who wanted to have an affair with her but he didn't have pure feelings toward her. The society of that time denied real feelings from each other. It just appreciates the outer beauty of humans.

👉Hubris and Self-Importance

         In women's life pride is natural to her. a woman never sleeps with anybody until she does not agree or until her modesty is not gone. Pride is the most important thing in a woman's life, she could not late it go for anybody, if she truly loved anybody she may be late it go. In this poem Belinda handles her pride very well.

Beauty could be without pride, and in this poem Belinda handles it best. Baron loves Bilinda and he wants to get her by force; he doesn't have intention to marry her. He just tried to win her, but he failed because Bilindas Pride, self respect and beauty were important things for her.

👉 Gender roles-

In 'The Rape of the Lock' pop portrays Belinda as protagonist, as an Epic Hero she preparing for battle. Belinda describes specifically with some male terms like heroism against other female characters like Thalestris displays proverbs on the battle and on other hand Clarissa gives weapons to Byron, to cut Belinda's hair.

Clarissas character is important in this poem, when Byron cuts off Belinda's hair, she frightens and she thinks that she lost her virginity, but this is not right. To teach Belinda what real beauty is she delivered a lecture on morality.

👉  Female sexuality-

According to 18th century society women attract a suitable husband to preserve her chastity and virtuous reputation. In that time women compromise her virtue either by deed or by her reputation. She lost place in society when Byron cut off Belinda's hair she as health she exiles herself from the party because she is in shock for her loss.

👉 Man’s place and purpose in the Universe

In "An Essay on man" pope describe his intention to consider "Man in the abstract, his nature and his state, since, to prove any moral duty, to any moral duty, to

enforce any moral precept, or to examine the perfection of Imperfection of any creature whatsoever, it is necessary first to know what condition and relation it is placed in, and what is the proper and purpose of its being"

    In this poem the pope explores the nature of man and his place in the world in the poem. Pope explains that man's place in the "Vast chain of being " is in a middle state, below the angels but above the beast and fowl. The Pope does not provide a universal solution to the proper end and purpose of man, he does reveal one of the g characteristics of humanity. Men have to understand their purpose in the world is.

👉 Legitimacy

           One of the main themes in this poem is "Legitimacy". Belinda is a glamorous lady, she is very beautiful. In this poem she is the example of vanity. She moves in a world that is completely lifeless, where personal appearance is everything for her. Every time she wakes up and puts most of her time on her beauty. When Byron cut off her hair she reacted very angry. Byron wants to steal some of Belinda's hair so he can boast of its possession. This whole poem reflects the vanity of the upper class society of the eighteenth century. They just value outer looks and such silly things which are not more important things.

Here is a youtube video link of the Themes of this poem. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fG-GE90wU2c

Conclusion -

          To sum up all things we could say that this poem reflects major things of eighteenth century society. Most upper class people have an obsession with beauty, vanity. They just wasted their time in such silly things they don't think as Clarissa thinks. Clarissa's speech is most important in this poem. She draws Belinda's attention that outer beauty is not everything, it is not as important as she thinks, when Clarissa tells all things Belinda prepares herself to bake her lock and she fights against Baron.

In this poem there is nothing deep or serious about the lives and activities of the fashionable people of that time. The most important thing for them is vanity and pride. To use this vanity and emptiness Pope has revealed this poem as brilliant art.

[Words- 2,557]

[Pictures- 4]

[Video- 1]

Citation-

Pope, Alexander. “The Rape of the Lock: Canto 1 by Alexander Pope.” Poetry Foundation, Poetry Foundation, www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/44906/the-rape-of-the-lock-canto-1 Accessed 24 Nov. 2023.

Hyman, Stanley Edgar. “The Rape of the Lock.” The Hudson Review, vol. 13, no. 3, 1960, pp. 406–12. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/3847965. Accessed 24 Nov. 2023.

Javaria, Sayeda. “Major Themes in the Rape of the Lock.” Literary English, 22 nov. 2023, https://literaryenglish.com/major-themes-in-the-rape-of-the-lock/.