Share 17th century english literature
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Why is the seventeenth century considered a century of transition into the modern world?
Because the Civil Wars broke old traditions, and religious controversies ended much of the medieval imagination, pushing England toward modern political and cul
Who became king of England after Elizabeth I died without an heir?
James VI of Scotland became King James I of England.
What were the two opposing sides in the English Civil War?
The Cavaliers (king’s followers) and the Puritans (supporters of Parliament).
Who led the Parliamentary army to victory during the Civil War?
Oliver Cromwel
What form of government was established after Charles I was executed in 1649?
A commonwealth (or Republic)
What role did pamphlets play during the Puritan Revolution?
They spread political ideas widely and laid the foundation for journalism and the periodical press.
Which poet became the greatest publicist of the Puritan Revolution?
John Milton.
What was the dominant form of literature in Elizabeth’s time and early seventeenth century?
Poetry
Who were the metaphysical poets, and what characterized their work?
John Donne and his followers; their poetry was complex, intellectual, and full of extended metaphors.
Poets like Herrick and Lovelace, who called themselves the “Sons of Ben.”
Ben Jonson & The Alchemist
How did Ben Jonson influence English literature?
He adapted classical Roman poetic forms, brought order and balance to English poetry, and pioneered satirical comedy.
What makes The Alchemist one of Jonson’s most celebrated works?
Its clever plot structure, vivid satire of human folly, and successful blending of classical unity with modern London settings.
How does Jonson portray Puritans in The Alchemist?
As hypocritical and money-hungry, denying them sympathy because of their theatre-opposing attitudes.
What inspired Milton during his European travels, particularly in Italy?
His meeting with Galileo, which later appeared in Paradise Lost and his writings on press freedom.
What position did Milton hold under Cromwell’s government?
He was Latin Secretary, translating government documents into and from Latin.
