1. English Romantic Poetry

2. What is Romanticism? By “Romantic” poetry we don’t mean lovey-dovey The Notebook kind of romantic. Romanticism refers to the writing style and ideals. The Romantic Period spans the years 1789-1832 and was a time of revolution (in France) and reform (in England).

3. Hallmarks of Romantic Poetry Romantic poetry –Uses creative imagination –Focuses on nature –Places importance on myth and symbolism –Focuses on feeling and intuition These poets were often referred to as the “nature poets” Romanticism is really a reaction against the Industrial Revolution and society’s focus on reason and city life

4. Famous Romantic Poets William Blake –“I will not reason and compare: my business is to create.” –Claimed he could converse with angels and other divine figures. –Famous works: Songs of Innocence and Experience. This work showed the two contrasting sides of the human soul.

5. Famous Romantic Poets William Wordsworth Famously described poetry as “the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings from emotions recollected in tranquility” Famous works: Tinturn Abbey Percy Bysshe Shelley –“Poetry lifts the veil from the hidden beauty of the world, and makes familiar objects as if they were not familiar.” –Died young-drowned in a storm at age 29 –Famous works: “Ozymandias” “Ode to the West Wind”

6. Victorian/Modern Poetry

7. The Victorian Era Spans the years 1832-1901 The Victorian Era was a time of expansion and reform. Many advancements in technology and manufacturing, as well as a rise in the middle class and improved conditions for workers. So named for Queen Victoria, who placed great value on moral behavior

8. Poetry During the Victorian Era Move from romanticism to realism Realism sought to show everyday life as it was really lived. Focused on the effects of the Industrial Revolution and often brought social problems to light. More experimentation in rhythm and a tendency toward a more pessimistic mood.

9. The Modern Era Spans the years 1901-present A time of intense political change –Technological advances continued from the Victorian Era (electric power, the automobile) –Women’s rights –Nationalist movement in British colonies World Wars I/II –During WWI Britain lost “almost an entire generation of young men” –Rise in dictatorships and fascism

10. Writing During the Modern Era More of a focus on social commentary and satire Wide range in writing styles Very personal