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? 

Eliot shows some similarities between some Elizabethan dramatists and some metaphysical poets like Donne and Herbert. What are the similarities? [NU: 2020]

Elizabethan (1558-1603) dramatists and metaphysical poets are important. John Donne (1572-1631) and George Herbert (1593-1633) are famous metaphysical poets. T. S. Eliot (1888-1965) writes about them in his essay, “The Metaphysical Poets” (1921). He finds many similarities in their work. Their styles helped English literature grow and change. Let us look at their main similarities in the following manner.

Thought and Feeling: Both groups join thoughts and feelings together. Their poems and plays mix emotion and mind. Eliot gives an example in his essay. He says,

“A thought to Donne was an experience; it modified his sensibility.”

This means their writing mixes ideas and real feelings. Their works become strong, rich, and alive. Both groups use clever thinking with deep emotion in their lines.

Wit and Images: They use clever wit and fresh images. Their words make new and surprising connections. Eliot points this out. He writes,

“Telescoping of images and multiplied associations.”

This quote shows that both groups give many ideas. Readers and observers are surprised and challenged by their words. They create lines that feel exciting and powerful.

Creative Style: Both groups love to experiment with style. They do not always follow old rules. Their scenes or poems change tone quickly. This makes their work feel free, creative, and bold. They push English literature forward.

Inspiration: These poets and dramatists inspire new artists. Many writers copy their creative energy. Their mix of mind and heart becomes a standard model. They show that poetry and plays can be both smart and emotional.

In short, Eliot shows that both groups changed English writing. They joined thought and feeling. They used clever images and gave new ideas. Their bold work still teaches students and poets even now.