Augustan Poetic Diction for Literary Critics

This volume offers students and others easy access to a selection of chapters from Professor Geoffrey Tillotson's Augustan Studies, where he explores the poetic theory and practice of the Augustan age in a comprehensive manner, rather than focusing on individual works. According to Professor Tillotson, Augustan poetry encompasses the "poetry written by most poets from Elizabethan times into the nineteenth century." While this definition may seem broad at first glance, it allows the author to highlight that the prominent eighteenth-century masters he primarily examines occupy a significant place in the broader narrative of English poetry.

By providing this expansive perspective, Tillotson facilitates a deeper understanding of the evolution of poetic styles and techniques during this influential era. This overarching view not only contextualizes the work of the eighteenth-century poets but also illustrates their connection to the traditions that preceded them, thereby enriching the reader's appreciation of their contributions to poetry.

The significance of this compilation lies in its ability to bridge the gap between historical context and the poetic innovations that define the Augustan age. Students will find this comprehensive treatment particularly beneficial as it situates individual poets and their works within the larger framework of evolving poetic conventions.

Professor Tillotson’s insights illuminate the ways in which the Augustan poets built upon earlier traditions while simultaneously forging new paths in their work. This interplay between continuity and innovation is a hallmark of the poetic landscape during the Augustan period, making it a vital area of study for anyone interested in the development of English literature.

In essence, this volume serves as an essential resource for both students and scholars, enabling them to engage with the key themes and practices that characterize Augustan poetry. By focusing on the collective achievements of the poets of this time, Tillotson encourages readers to consider not only the individual merits of specific works but also the broader cultural and literary movements that influenced them.

Overall, this accessible volume stands as a testament to Professor Tillotson’s scholarship, allowing a wider audience to appreciate the richness of the Augustan age and its lasting impact on English poetry. Students and enthusiasts alike will find the exploration of these poetic theories and practices to be enlightening, providing valuable insights that resonate beyond the confines of the eighteenth century and into the ongoing legacy of poetic expression.

Through this compilation, readers are invited to engage with the historical and literary significance of the Augustan era, gaining a nuanced understanding of how its poetry reflects larger societal transformations. By examining the works and theories articulated by the major poets of the time, this collection ultimately fosters a renewed appreciation for the intricacies and enduring relevance of Augustan poetry within the scope of English literary history.

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