What are the Similarities between Some Elizabethan Dramatists and Metaphysical Poets

Answer

According to Eliot, what are the similarities between some Elizabethan dramatists and Metaphysical poets like Donne and Herbert? 

T.S. Eliot (1888-1965), in his essay “The Metaphysical Poets” (1921), shows how Elizabethan dramatists like Shakespeare and Chapman and metaphysical poets like John Donne and George Herbert are similar. He explains that they both skillfully mix deep thinking with strong feelings in their work. They create powerful expressions of thoughts and emotions.

Mixing Thought and Feeling Together: Eliot says that both the Elizabethan dramatists and Metaphysical poets like Donne blend ideas and emotions. They blend in a way that feels natural and connected. Eliot says about George Chapman, 

In Chapman especially there is a direct sensuous apprehension of

thought, or a recreation of thought into feeling.

Just like the dramatists, Donne’s thoughts and feelings are tightly joined. Eliot says about Donne,

A thought to Donne was an experience.

This makes his poetry both thoughtful and emotional.

Using Complex Imagery: Both groups of writers use complex pictures or comparisons in their work. Eliot points out that just as Elizabethan dramatists use rich metaphors and images in their plays, the Metaphysical poets do the same in their poems. Eliot says they both achieve a 

Telescoping of images and multiplied associations.

For example, Donne’s poetry often tries to turn a single idea into something bigger and more meaningful, similar to how dramatists extend their comparisons on stage.

Intellectual and Emotional Depth: Lastly, both groups had a deep understanding of human nature and life’s big questions. Eliot says that later poets like Tennyson and Browning were smart, but they did not feel their thoughts as strongly as Donne and the Elizabethan dramatists did. The ability to connect both the mind and heart made the work of the Metaphysical poets and Elizabethan dramatists deep and valuable. That is why, their work is still respected today.

In conclusion, T.S. Eliot’s analysis shows how the Metaphysical poets and Elizabethan dramatists shared a unique ability to blend thought and feeling, use complex imagery, and create unified experiences in their work. These similarities highlight why both groups remain celebrated for their contributions to English literature.