Selected Poetry
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Author Description
Though critical opinion on Alexander Pope has frequently been divided, he is now regarded as the most important poet of the early eighteenth century. An invalid from infancy, he devoted his energies towards literature and achieved remarkable success with his first published work at the age of twenty-one. A succession of brilliant poems followed, including An Essay on Criticism (1711), Windsor Forest (1715), and his masterpiece, The Rape of the Lock. A second period of great poetry was begun in 1728 with the appearance of the first Dunciad. All these works--which exhibit Pope's astonishing human insight, his wide sympathies, and powers of social observation (displayed to greatest effect in his talent for satire)--are included in this selection of his poetry. It has been compiled by the distinguished Pope scholar and editor Pat Rodgers, who also provides an indispensable introduction that offers a new interpretation of Pope's poetry, and the philosophical ideas behind it.About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.
Menrva's Summary
THE PULSE
Alexander Pope navigates the complex social and intellectual landscape of the eighteenth century through precise, biting verse that challenges the moral and cultural norms of his era. As a poet who overcame physical limitations to become a dominant literary figure, Pope utilizes his work to critique the vanity, hypocrisy, and intellectual failings of his contemporaries. The narrative framework of his poetry often employs the heroic couplet, blending classical allusion with sharp, observational wit. His objective is to expose the absurdities of human behavior while upholding the standards of reason and order in a rapidly changing society.
INSIDE THE PAGES
- Mastery of the heroic couplet as a primary structural device
- Sharp, satirical commentary on contemporary social figures and institutions
- Integration of classical mythology and historical allusion
- Philosophical inquiries into the nature of human morality and reason
- Detailed observations of eighteenth-century English life and landscape
- Use of irony to highlight the disparity between appearance and reality
- Didactic elements aimed at refining the reader's critical judgment
- Complex rhythmic patterns that emphasize the musicality of the language
THE COLLECTIVE ECHO
Readers and critics frequently highlight Pope's unparalleled technical skill in managing the constraints of the heroic couplet. Discussion often centers on the balance between his biting satirical wit and his genuine philosophical depth regarding the human condition. Scholars emphasize that his work serves as a vital record of the intellectual climate of the early eighteenth century. The atmosphere of his poetry is often described as highly structured, reflecting the era's preoccupation with order and classical form. Readers appreciate the inclusion of scholarly introductions which help contextualize the specific social targets of his more pointed verses.
Page Count:
226
Publication Date:
2008-12-15
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
0199537607
ISBN-13:
9780199537600
Classics
Poetry
Satire
British literature
18th century
