An essential work of literary criticism that had a significant impact on Western literature is Horace’s “Ars Poetica,” which was published in 19 BC. Horace outlines his understanding of the nature and function of poetry in this poem and offers counsel to aspiring poets. “Ars Poetica” is a guide for writing effective poetry that places a strong emphasis on both technical proficiency and creative vision. In his defense of clarity, naturalness, and simplicity in poetry, Horace urges poets to be inventive and distinctive while also abiding by the rules of their particular genre.
American Dream in English Literature
The American Dream has been a recurring and enduring theme in American society and culture, motivating generations of both native-born Americans and immigrants to achieve their dreams and aspirations. This idea of achievement and advancement has also been a major issue in English literature, illustrating both the benefits and drawbacks of the American Dream. Through literary works, authors have investigated the various ways people strive for fulfillment and how the pursuit of the American Dream can result in tragedy, failure, or disillusionment. The American Dream has been a recurring theme in English literature from the early 20th century to the present, serving as a prism through which to analyze the intricacies and tensions of American life and society.
John Keats concept of Negative Capability
The English poet John Keats first discussed the idea of negative capability in a letter he wrote in 1817. It suggests a specific trait of artistic and creative thinking—the capacity to accept ambiguity, contradiction, and uncertainty without looking for easy or conclusive solutions. The ability to remain in a condition of doubt and ambiguity without drawing firm conclusions or applying previous conceptions to a situation or experience is what Keats called “negative capability.”
Epistolary novel | Characteristics | Examples
The epistolary novel is a kind of fiction in which the characters exchange letters, diaries, or other personal records over the course of the plot. The inclusion of epistolary novels in English literature has a long history, with some of the most well-known examples appearing as early as the 18th century. Samuel Richardson’s “Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded,” which was published in 1740, is one of the first and most well-known examples of the epistolary novel in English literature. In the novel, a young maid named Pamela fights against her employer’s advances and ultimately marries him. The entire novel is written in the form of letters between the characters.
Aestheticism in Literature | Movement
A response against the Victorian era’s reliance on moral and social ideals gave rise to aesthetics in the late 19th century. It was a reaction to what was considered as the stifling decorum, ethics, and social conformity of Victorian society, which was seen as being too constrictive and repressive.
Transcendentalism | Definition | Characteristics
In the early 19th century, Transcendentalism became popular in the United States, mainly in the New England region. It highlighted the value of individuality, instinct, and the bond between humans and the natural world. Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, and Margaret Fuller are a few of the prominent names connected to transcendentalism. It was a response to the rationalism, technological materialism, and increasing emphasis on business and industry that characterized the intellectual and cultural milieu of the time.
Okonkwo character traits or personality
Okonkwo is the protagonist of Chinua Achebe’s book “Things Fall Apart”. He belongs to the affluent and well-respected Umuofia tribe in pre-colonial Nigeria. Okonkwo is renowned for both his physical and emotional toughness; he has triumphed in numerous wrestling battles and endured a variety of trying circumstances. He has a strong sense of ambition and works hard to succeed and gain influence in his neighborhood. He has made it his mission to get to the position of respected family provider and leader.