What is Metaphysical Poet
History of English Literature is a notable literary work by ___. 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 History of English Literature.
Answer
Who are the Metaphysical Poets? Evaluate their contribution to English literature.
Or, what is Metaphysical Poet
Or, Who are the Metaphysical Poets? Evaluate their contribution to English literature.
Or, what is Metaphysical Poetry? What are the salient features of Metaphysical Poetry?
The metaphysical poets are a group of 17th-century English writers. Elaborate metaphors, conceits (unusual comparisons), and deep philosophical and abstract themes are seen in their works. The most famous metaphysical poets are John Donne, George Herbert, Andrew Marvell, Richard Crashaw, and Henry Vaughan. The term “Metaphysical Poets” was coined by Samuel Johnson (1709 – 1784). He mentioned their tendency to mingle thoughts and feelings in their poetry.
John Donne/Conceits and Paradoxes (1572-1631): Conceits and paradoxes are two salient features of Metaphysical Poetry. Conceits are comparisons between two different things in a surprising way. Donne is known for metaphysical conceits and paradoxes. In “A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning,” Donne compares the two lovers to the two legs of a compass. He writes:
“If they be two, they are two so
As stiff twin compasses are two;
Thy soul, the fixed foot, makes no show
To move, but doth, if the other do”.
Here, the poet says the lovers cannot stay separate: if one goes somewhere, the other leans towards the beloved. Donne’s work explores various themes like love, death, God, and faith. His divine poems are found in his work “Holy Sonnets.” His well-known metaphysical poems are: “The Good-Morrow,” “The Sun Rising,” “The Canonization,” “A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning,” and “The Flea.”
George Herbert/Religion and Spirituality (1593-1633): Metaphysical poetry deals with religious themes. Herbert’s poetry mainly focuses on religion and spirituality. His devotional poems are found in his collection “The Temple”. This collection includes poems like “The Collar” and “Easter Wings.” These poems present Herbert’s religious attitude. He often uses symbols and metaphors. He expresses his faith and inner struggles, such as in the poem “The Collar”—where the speaker is burdened with religious duties, and eventually finds comfort in God’s prayer. Unlike Donne, Herbert’s language is more straightforward.
Andrew Marvell/Love and Philosophy (1621-1678): Andrew Marvell’s