Neoclassicism in Literature

Neoclassicism: Etymology/Term, Definition and Concept

Etymology/Term:

The term “Neoclassicism” originates from the combination of “neo,” meaning new or revived, and “classicism,” referring to the principles and aesthetics of ancient Greek and Roman art. Emerging in the 18th century as a reaction against the exuberance of the Baroque style, Neoclassicism sought a return to the classical ideals of order, simplicity, and rationality in various artistic forms, including literature, visual arts, and architecture.

Definition:

Neoclassicism is an artistic and intellectual movement that emerged in the late 17th century and reached its peak in the 18th century. It is characterized by a revival of classical forms and ideals, drawing inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman art, literature, and philosophy. Neoclassical works often exhibit a commitment to clarity, simplicity, and rationality, rejecting the ornate and emotional excesses of preceding styles such as Baroque. This movement had a profound influence on literature, architecture, and the visual arts, shaping the cultural landscape of the Enlightenment period.

Concept:

• Classical Influences: Neoclassicism emphasizes a return to the classical ideals of ancient Greece and Rome, drawing inspiration from their art, literature, and philosophy.
• Order and Symmetry: Neoclassical works prioritize order, balance, and symmetry, reflecting a belief in rationality and the pursuit of clarity in artistic expression.
• Intellectualism and Reason: The movement is characterized by a focus on intellect and reason, seeking to communicate ideas clearly and logically in contrast to the emotionalism of previous styles.
• Rejection of Baroque Exuberance: Neoclassicism rejects the ornate and emotionally charged characteristics of the Baroque period, favoring simplicity and restraint.
• Moral and Didactic Intent: Neoclassical works often have a moral or didactic purpose, using classical themes to convey virtues, ethical lessons, and a sense of civic responsibility.

Neoclassicism, as a cultural and artistic movement, played a significant role in shaping the aesthetic values of the Enlightenment era and provided a foundation for subsequent artistic developments.

Neoclassicism: Theorists, Works, and Argument

Neoclassicism	Theorists	Works	Arguments
Classical Influences	Johann Joachim Winckelmann	History of Ancient Art – Emphasizes the beauty of classical art and its influence on contemporary aesthetics.	Winckelmann argued for the moral and aesthetic superiority of classical art, advocating for its emulation in the present.
Order and Symmetry	Jacques-Louis David	Oath of the Horatii – Illustrates neoclassical principles through balanced composition.	David advocated for clarity, order, and visual harmony, considering these elements essential for conveying moral and political ideals.
Intellectualism and Reason	Alexander Pope	Essay on Criticism – Advocates for reason and intellect in literary criticism.	Pope argued for clear and rational criticism, rejecting excessive emotion and favoring a reasoned approach to literary evaluation.
Rejection of Baroque Exuberance	Jean-Baptiste Greuze	The Village Bride – Depicts scenes of everyday life with simplicity and restraint.	Greuze rejected the elaborate and emotional excesses of the Baroque, favoring a more restrained and morally instructive approach.
Moral and Didactic Intent	Voltaire	Candide – A satirical novella critiquing societal conventions and advocating reason.	Voltaire used satire to critique societal flaws, promoting reason, tolerance, and a more enlightened worldview.

In the table, the theorists, their notable works, and key arguments are presented, all in alignment with the principles of Neoclassicism. The book titles are formatted in bold and italics without the use of quotes.

Neoclassicism: Major Principles with Examples from Literature

1. Order and Balance:
   • Neoclassical literature often adhered to a strict structure and form, emphasizing clarity and symmetry.
   • Example: Alexander Pope’s “The Rape of the Lock” maintains a balanced and ordered structure, with a heroic couplet form, addressing trivial matters with a mock-epic tone.
2. Rationalism and Reason:
   • Neoclassical writers valued reason and intellect over emotion and intuition.
   • Example: Voltaire’s satirical novella “Candide” employs reason to criticize various societal and philosophical ideologies, promoting a skeptical and rational outlook.
3. Imitation of Classical Models:
   • Neoclassical writers often imitated classical literary forms and themes, drawing inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman works.
   • Example: Jean Racine’s tragedy “Phèdre” is modeled after classical Greek tragedies, exploring themes of fate, passion, and moral dilemmas.
4. Moral Purpose and Didacticism:
   • Neoclassical literature often had a moral purpose, intending to instruct and educate the reader.
   • Example: Samuel Johnson’s “Rasselas” is a philosophical novel that explores the search for happiness, offering moral lessons and reflections on human nature.
5. Satire and Social Criticism:
   • Satire was a common literary device used by Neoclassical writers to criticize and mock societal flaws and follies.
   • Example: Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels” satirizes human nature, politics, and society through the allegorical adventures of Lemuel Gulliver.
6. Idealization of Nature:
   • Neoclassical literature often idealized nature as a harmonious and orderly force.
   • Example: The pastoral poetry of Alexander Pope, such as “The Pastorals,” idealizes the countryside and rural life as a retreat from the corruption of urban society.
7. Clarity of Expression:
   • Neoclassical writers aimed for clarity, precision, and simplicity in their language and expression.
   • Example: John Dryden’s “An Essay of Dramatic Poesy” exemplifies clear and concise prose, discussing the principles of drama in a straightforward manner.

These principles were central to Neoclassical literature, and they influenced various forms of artistic expression during the 18th century. Neoclassicism was a reaction against the ornate and emotive styles of the preceding periods, emphasizing reason, order, and a return to classical ideals.

Neoclassicism: Examples of Critiques

Literary Work	Critiques
Alexander Pope’s “The Rape of the Lock”	1. Some critics argue that Pope’s satirical approach may come across as elitist, as he humorously addresses trivial matters among the aristocracy. 2. The mock-epic style may be seen as a departure from the classical epic tradition, despite its adherence to classical forms.
Voltaire’s “Candide”	1. Some critics view the work as overly pessimistic and lacking in depth due to its satirical and parodic nature. 2. The characterizations are often considered one-dimensional, serving more as vehicles for philosophical ideas than as fully developed individuals.
Jean Racine’s “Phèdre”	1. Some critics argue that Racine’s adherence to classical forms may limit the emotional depth and complexity of characters. 2. The strict adherence to the classical unities may be seen as a constraint on creativity and innovation.
Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels”	1. Some critics contend that the satirical elements are sometimes harsh and may border on misanthropy. 2. Swift’s pessimistic view of humanity may be considered overly cynical, diminishing the potential for a more nuanced exploration of human nature.

Neoclassicism: Relevant Terms

Term	Definition
Mimesis	Imitation or representation of reality, often referencing classical models.
Decorum	Adherence to social and literary propriety, ensuring that characters and actions are appropriate for their context.
Poetic Justice	The concept that virtue is rewarded and vice is punished in literary works.
Allusion	Brief and indirect references to literature, history, or mythology for added depth and meaning.
Didactic Literature	Works intended to instruct or morally enlighten the reader.
Hubris	Excessive pride or arrogance, often leading to a character’s downfall.
Unity of Time, Place, and Action	The adherence to limitations on time, setting, and plot in dramatic works, as advocated by Aristotle.
Satire	Humorous or critical commentary on society, politics, or individuals, often using irony and exaggeration.
Enlightenment	The intellectual movement emphasizing reason, science, and individual rights, influencing Neoclassical thought.
Heroic Couplet	A pair of rhyming iambic pentameter lines, frequently used in Neoclassical poetry for its formal structure.

Neoclassicism: Suggested Readings

1. Dryden, John. All for Love; or, The World Well Lost. Oxford University Press, 2008.
2. Johnson, Samuel. The Lives of the English Poets. Edited by Roger Lonsdale, Oxford University Press, 2006.
3. Pope, Alexander. The Dunciad. Edited by Valerie Rumbold, Penguin Classics, 2006.
4. Racine, Jean. Phèdre. Translated by Ted Hughes, Faber & Faber, 2001.
5. Swift, Jonathan. Gulliver’s Travels. Edited by Robert DeMaria Jr., Norton, 2012.
6. Voltaire. Candide. Translated by Burton Raffel, Yale University Press, 2005.
7. Wimsatt, William K., and Cleanth Brooks. Literary Criticism: A Short History. Knopf, 1957.