The Rape of the Lock : Key info
The Rape of the Lock is a notable literary work by Alexander Pope. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Rape of the Lock.
Key info
Title: “The Rape of the Lock”
Author: Alexander Pope (1688-1774)
Written Date: Between 1712 and 1714
Publication Date: Final version published in 1717
Literary Period: Augustan Age
Genre: Mock-heroic, Narrative Poem, Roman à clef
Place Setting: Belinda’s house, Hampton Court, and the Cave of Spleen
Climax: Belinda’s lock of hair disappears from the Baron’s hands and becomes a star in the sky
Antagonist: The Baron
Point of View: Third-person omniscient
Key Notes
Augustan Age: The Augustan Age is a period in English literature during the early 18th century. It is named after the Roman emperor Augustus. Writers of this age followed rules, order, and reason. They copied classical writers like Horace and Virgil. The age is known for satire, wit, and polished style. Important writers include Alexander Pope, Jonathan Swift, and Joseph Addison.
Mock-Heroic: Mock-heroic is a funny type of writing that uses the style of serious epic poetry to describe silly or small events. It mocks the grand style by applying it to unimportant matters. In “The Rape of the Lock,” Pope uses this style to tell the simple story of a stolen lock of hair in a serious and heroic way.