History of Puritan Age and Introduction of Puritan Age l Puritan Age Writers l Major Figures and Works of the Puritan Age

Introduction: The 17th century, often known as Milton's Age, is a significant era in the history of English literature because it encompasses two major historical eras. 

Beginning in 1603 with James I, known as the sub-period of Jacobean, it lasted until 1625 under Charles I, known as the sub-period of Caroline, which lasted until 1649 under Charles II. 

New ideas, analysis, and observation were encouraged throughout this time period since it was a period of innovation and exploration for mankind.

Because of Milton and Cromwell's fight for liberty, a Civil War erupted in these days owing to numerous oppressive royal laws, including the declaration of Devine Right of the Kings in 1604. Cromwell took control of the government when Charles I was executed in 1649, ending his oppressive rule. Numerous modifications have been made, particularly in legislation and parliament, throughout the Commonwealth period.

Puritan-era genres include the following: Drama, poetry, and prose were popular forms of writing throughout the Puritan era, with poetry being the most popular.

Metaphysical Poetry: This new school of poetry was composed in the seventh century and included writers who used exaggerations, farfetched similes, and distinct metaphors to set themselves apart from earlier generations of poets. They were a group of witty poets, with John Donne standing out among them. Romantic poets, intellectuals, and honest poets who were aware of religious issues, all belonged to this group.

Metaphysical Poets: 

John Donne (1537-1631)

He was the founder of the Metaphysical Poets' School, which was led by John Donne.

• Metempsychosis
• The Progress of the Soul
• An Anatomy of the World
• Epithalamium

Early works focused on romantic themes and love poems written in a realistic style.

Thomas Carew (1598-1639) :

He was also a member of this school and is most known for his renowned work, 'Persuasions of Love,' which has rhythmic cadence settings.

Richard Crashaw (1613-1649) :

He was another prominent member of this group, and he was most known for his work 'The Flaming Heart,' as previously said.

Abraham Cowley (1618-1667) :

Many readers liked Abraham Cowley's "Pindaric Odes," which he wrote between 1618 and 1667, and he was a major character in the metaphysical school.

Robert Herrick (1591-1674) : 

He was another member of this group and is well-known for his love poetry, particularly his philosophical love poetry. Lord Herbert of Cherbury, another member of this school, wrote under the influence of the metaphysical school.

The Metaphysical School of poetry includes writers like;

• Henry Vaughan (1622-1695) 
• Andrew Marvel (1621-1672)
• Edmund Waller (1606-1687)

The Cavalier Group of Poets:

Cavalier poets were poets who drew inspiration from Ben Jonson. They were composed in the classical style of Ben Jonson. Because Sir John Suckling (1609-1642) and Sir Richard Lovelace (1618-1658) were not genuine royalists, Cavaliers were not all royalists, as their label indicates. Lovelace's 'To Lucasta' and 'To Althea' were two of the most well-known poems in this collection.

John Milton (1608-1674) :

It was John Milton who was the age's poet and produced some of history's most notable poetry. He was the most famous Puritan poet of the time period, and he mostly wrote about himself and his religious beliefs. A religious poem he wrote while blind, 'Paradise Lost,' is among his most well-known works. It contains many of the high points of his personal life. The Hymn on the Nativity, composed in 1629 by a lyrical genius, was followed by "L'Allegro" and "Il Penseroso," both country poems, in 1632; "Lycidas," an elegy for the pastoral life; and "Comus," a lyrical tone poem, in 1634. To demonstrate how full of feelings this is, consider Milton's poem, "When the Assault was the Intended to the City."

Milton opposed King Charles I and sided with Oliver Cromwell in the fight for freedom. He composed "Paradise Lost" after these occurrences, which is all about Man's paths to God and about Paradise and Hell; "Paradise Regained" is debate poetry with Christ as the primary character. The drama 'Samson Agonistes' depicts his relationship with a blind hero as part of its story.

Youtube Lecture: Puritan Age