What is meant by metaphysical poets?
: highly intellectualized poetry marked by bold and ingenious conceits, incongruous imagery, complexity and subtlety of thought, frequent use of paradox, and often by deliberate harshness or rigidity of expression.
What were the metaphysical poets known for?
The term Metaphysical poets was coined by the critic Samuel Johnson to describe a loose group of 17th-century English poets whose work was characterised by the inventive use of conceits, and by a greater emphasis on the spoken rather than lyrical quality of their verse.
Who is the founder of metaphysical poetry?
John Donne
John Donne was born in 1572 in London, England. He is known as the founder of the Metaphysical Poets, a term created by Samuel Johnson, an eighteenth-century English essayist, poet, and philosopher.
Who invented metaphysical poets?
poet Samuel Johnson
Literary critic and poet Samuel Johnson first coined the term ‘metaphysical poetry’ in his book Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets (1179-1781). In the book, Johnson wrote about a group of 17th-century British poets that included John Donne, George Herbert, Richard Crashaw, Andrew Marvell and Henry Vaughan.
What is the purpose of metaphysical poetry?
Metaphysical poetry is not intended to be read in a passive way, and its use of paradox, imagery and wit are meant to awaken the reader. Metaphysical poetry asks the philosophical questions about religion, faith, spirituality and being.
What is metaphysical poetry examples?
1. John Donne, ‘The Flea’. Like many of the best metaphysical poems, ‘The Flea’ uses an interesting and unusual conceit to make an argument – in this case, about the nature of physical love. Like Andrew Marvell’s ‘To His Coy Mistress’ (see below), ‘The Flea’ is essentially a seduction lyric.
What is the importance of metaphysical poetry?
Why it is called metaphysical?
The word metaphysical is a combination of the prefix of “meta” meaning “after” with the word “physical.” The phrase “after physical” refers to something that cannot be explained by science.
Who is the father of metaphysical poetry?
Literary critic and poet Samuel Johnson first coined the term “metaphysical poetry” in his book Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets (1179 – 1781) (Life of Cowlie section). It was also used by John Dryden to describe Donne’s poetry.
Why is Donne called a metaphysical poet?
In his essay “The Metaphysical Poets,” T. S. Donne (1572 – 1631) was the most influential metaphysical poet. His personal relationship with spirituality is at the center of most of his work, and the psychological analysis and sexual realism of his work marked a dramatic departure from traditional, genteel verse.
What are the elements of metaphysical poetry?
Metaphysical poems have the elements of metaphors, metaphysical conceits, paradoxes, and analogies. Metaphors and metaphysical conceits, a type of extended metaphor, are used to show a connection between two things that are not similar and to prove the speaker’s point in his poem.
Why is metaphysical poetry important?
Who is considered the founder of metaphysical poetry?
All conversations about metaphysical poetry must start with John Donne. He is considered the founder of metaphysical poetry and master of the metaphysical conceit. Donne was not only a poet but a lawyer, priest and satirist. His poetry reflects this diversity, and his works are just as religious as they are funny.
When was the peak of metaphysical poetry in England?
Metaphysical Poetry Metaphysical poetry was at its peak during the seventeenth century in England and continental Europe. The movement explored everything from irony to philosophy and conceits. It is for its complex and original conceits that most metaphysical poems are noted.
What do you need to know about metaphysical poetry?
Metaphysical poetry asks the philosophical questions about religion, faith, spirituality and being. To unlock this lesson you must be a Study.com Member. This lesson explained the significance and literary form of metaphysical poetry. Using your new understanding, explore one or more of the following prompts in order to learn more.
Who are the metaphysical poets of the 17th century?
Definition of Metaphysical Poetry. In the book, Johnson wrote about a group of 17th-century British poets that included John Donne, George Herbert, Richard Crashaw, Andrew Marvell and Henry Vaughan. He noted how the poets shared many common characteristics, especially ones of wit and elaborate style.