Narrative Summary of The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland (1753) Volume III

Overview: This text is a biographical dictionary of poets from Great Britain and Ireland, published in 1753. It presents an overview of their lives, focusing on their works, relationships with other poets, and their social and political standing. I am given glimpses into the characters and personalities of these poets, allowing me to understand their motivations, and how they navigated the literary scene of their time.

Main parts:

Individual Biographies: Each section focuses on a single poet, providing information about their birth, education, career, personal life, and key works.
Analysis of Works: The text analyzes the various literary works of each poet, including plays, poems, and essays. This includes their subject matter, style, and critical reception.
Historical Context: The biographical sketches are interwoven with information about the historical and political context of the time, showcasing the poets’ involvement in court life, social movements, and political debates.

View on Life:

Courtly Life and Pleasure: Many poets are described as enjoying courtly life, embracing pleasure, and seeking the patronage of royalty. This view emphasizes the importance of social connections and political affiliations in achieving success.
Duty and Loyalty: A strong sense of duty and loyalty is evident in the lives of poets like Sir John Denham, who served as a messenger for King Charles I. during the Civil War.
Moral Struggle: Poets like Aphra Behn and Charles Sedley are portrayed as struggling with their personal desires and the moral expectations of society. This demonstrates a tension between the desire for pleasure and the pressure to conform to social norms.
Genius and Ambition: The text highlights the ambition and relentless pursuit of fame by poets, showcasing their dedication to their craft and their desire for recognition.

Scenarios:

Courtly Intrigue: The text describes the complex social and political dynamics of the court, showcasing the poets’ involvement in power struggles, romantic affairs, and patronage.
Political Debates: Many poets are portrayed as engaging in the political debates of their time, showcasing their stances on issues like the Restoration, the Exclusion Bill, and the Revolution.
Theatrical World: The text delves into the world of the theatre, describing the rivalries between acting companies, the struggles of playwrights to get their works produced, and the importance of actors and patrons in achieving success.
Literary Battles: The text highlights the clashes and rivalries between poets, such as the famous feud between Dryden and Shadwell. This offers insights into the competitive nature of the literary scene.

Challenges:

Financial Struggles: Many poets, particularly those not born into wealth, faced significant financial difficulties. This challenges them to find patrons, sell their work, and navigate the complexities of the literary marketplace.
Political Intrigue and Instability: Poets frequently experienced the challenges of navigating political instability and the shifting tides of power, potentially leading to loss of patronage, censorship, and even persecution.
Critical Reception and Censorship: The poets encountered criticism from both the public and their fellow writers. Some faced censorship for their controversial works, while others struggled to find a receptive audience.

Conflict:

Political Division: The text highlights the conflict between Whig and Tory factions, with poets aligning themselves with different political sides, leading to rivalries and accusations.
Religious Conflict: The text explores the conflict between different religious groups, especially the clash between Protestants and Catholics. This conflict shapes the political climate and influences the poets’ writing and social standing.
Literary Rivalry: The text details the conflict and rivalry between poets, both on the stage and in the literary world. This highlights the competitive nature of the profession and the constant struggle for recognition and influence.

Plot:

Rise to Fame: Many poets are depicted as rising to prominence through their works, their connections with powerful individuals, and their engagement in the intellectual and social currents of their time.
Loss of Patronage: Some poets face a decline in fortune due to the loss of their patrons, political changes, or personal scandals. This leads to challenges, financial struggles, and a shift in their circumstances.
Literary Legacy: The text concludes with a reflection on the legacy of each poet, highlighting the lasting impact of their works and their contributions to the literary landscape.

Point of view:

Third-person narrative: The text primarily uses a third-person narrative, providing a detached and objective view of the poets’ lives and works.
Historical perspective: The author presents a historical perspective, drawing on primary sources and contemporary accounts to provide insights into the social, political, and intellectual climate of the poets’ time.

How it’s written:

Formal and Scholarly: The text employs a formal and scholarly tone, using a precise and descriptive language to present factual information and critical analysis.
Biographical Emphasis: The writing prioritizes biographical details, providing a chronological account of each poet’s life, their works, and their interactions with other prominent figures.

Tone:

Objective and Informative: The tone is generally objective and informative, aiming to provide a comprehensive and unbiased account of the poets’ lives and works.
Appreciative of Literary Merit: The text displays an appreciation for the literary merit of the poets, acknowledging their talents and contributions to the development of English literature.

Life choices:

Choice of Patronage: Poets often made deliberate choices to align themselves with specific patrons, seeking financial and social support for their careers.
Political Affiliations: Many poets chose to align themselves with specific political factions, often influenced by their personal beliefs and the potential for advancement.
Pursuit of Fame: Poets consistently made choices to pursue fame and recognition, dedicating themselves to their craft and seeking to establish their place in the literary world.

Lessons:

Importance of Patronage: The text highlights the importance of patronage in the literary world, showing how poets relied on powerful individuals for financial and social support.
The Power of Social Connections: The text emphasizes the significance of social connections and networking in the pursuit of success, showcasing how poets navigated the complexities of court life and the literary scene.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity: The biographies of poets often demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity, showing how they overcame financial struggles, political persecution, and critical reception.

Characters:

Sir John Denham: A poet known for his work “Cooper’s Hill,” Denham was a loyalist during the Civil War and later served as Surveyor of the King’s Buildings. He was known for his gambling addiction.
Thomas Killegrew: A humorous and witty figure, Killegrew was a page of honor to Charles I. and a close confidant to Charles II. He was known for his sharp wit and his ability to entertain the King with clever jokes and anecdotes.
Edward Howard: A nobleman more distinguished by his birth than his talent, Howard was a playwright and poet whose works were often ridiculed for their lack of depth and originality.
Aphra Behn: A groundbreaking female writer, Behn was known for her plays, poems, novels, and her political intrigue, which included spying for King Charles II. in Antwerp.
Sir George Etherege: A renowned wit and playwright of the Restoration era, Etherege was known for his comedies, his love of pleasure, and his later diplomatic service.
William Mountford: A popular and gifted actor, Mountford was tragically murdered by an assassin in a case that involved political intrigue and a love triangle. He was also a playwright and poet.
Thomas Shadwell: A successful playwright and poet laureate, Shadwell was a rival of John Dryden and the subject of Dryden’s satirical poem “Mac Flecknoe.” He was known for his comedies and his strong morals.
Sir William Killegrew: A playwright and civil servant, Killegrew served as a gentleman usher to Charles I. and later became a vice-chamberlain to Charles II.
Sir Robert Howard: A politician and playwright, Howard was Dryden’s brother-in-law and a figure of ridicule in the duke of Buckingham’s play “The Rehearsal.”
Richard Flecknoe: A poet known for his nonsensical works, Flecknoe is mostly remembered for being the subject of Dryden’s satire “Mac Flecknoe.”
John Dryden: A towering figure of the English literary scene, Dryden was poet laureate, a playwright, translator, and critic. He is considered one of the greatest English poets, known for works such as “Absalom and Achitophel,” “The Hind and the Panther,” and his translations of Virgil and other classics.
Sir Charles Sedley: A renowned wit, courtier, and poet, Sedley was known for his love poems, his bawdy humor, and his role in the Revolution.
John Crowne: A playwright known for his comedies, Crowne was a rival of Dryden and received the King’s patronage. He is known for his play “Sir Courtly Nice.”
Charles Sackville, Earl of Dorset: A gifted poet and nobleman, Dorset was known for his wit, his gallantry, and his political involvement. He is famous for the song he wrote the night before a naval battle.
Mr. George Farquhar: A playwright known for his comedies, Farquhar was a soldier, a lover of the theatre, and an unfortunate figure who faced financial hardship and died in poverty.
Edward Ravenscroft: A playwright known for adapting and borrowing from other writers, Ravenscroft is most notable for his feud with John Dryden and his humorous play “Mamamouchi.”
John Philips: A poet known for his work “Cyder” and his burlesque poem “The Splendid Shilling,” Philips was deeply influenced by Milton and a lover of nature.
William Walsh: A poet and critic, Walsh was praised by Dryden and Pope for his intelligence and his work “A Dialogue Concerning Women.”
Thomas Betterton: A renowned actor known for his interpretations of Shakespeare’s plays, Betterton was considered the British Roscius.
John Banks: A playwright known for his tragedies, Banks is most famous for his play “The Island Queens,” which is a tragic depiction of the life of Mary Queen of Scots.
Lady Chudleigh: A poet and essayist, Lady Chudleigh was known for her writings on moral and philosophical subjects. She is considered one of the most important female poets of the early 18th century.
Thomas Creech: A classical scholar and translator, Creech is known for his translation of Lucretius. He committed suicide after facing criticism for his translation of Horace.
Arthur Maynwaring: A politician, poet, and essayist, Maynwaring was known for his involvement in Whig politics and his close relationship with Mrs. Oldfield, a famous actress.
The Hon. Mrs. Monk: A poet known for her translations and her personal writings, Mrs. Monk was the daughter of Lord Molesworth and the wife of George Monk, Esq.
Thomas Brown: A witty and satirical writer, Brown was known for his dialogues, essays, and letters, which often poked fun at society and its follies.
Dr. William King: A scholar, poet, and lawyer, King was known for his humorous writings, including his poem “The Art of Cookery.”
Thomas Sprat (Bishop of Rochester): A clergyman, scholar, and writer, Sprat was known for his “History of the Royal Society” and his involvement in court politics.
Charles Montague (Earl of Halifax): A politician, poet, and patron of the arts, Halifax was a key figure in Whig politics and played a significant role in promoting the Hanoverian succession.
William Wycherley: A playwright known for his comedies, Wycherley was a socialite, a favorite of Charles II., and a controversial figure due to his love affairs and his financial struggles.
Nahum Tate: A poet laureate to King William, Tate was known for his collaboration with Dr. Brady on a version of the Psalms and his own playwriting.
Sir Samuel Garth: A physician, poet, and patron of the arts, Garth was a prominent Whig and a member of the Kit-Kat Club. He is known for his poem “The Dispensary.”
Nicholas Rowe: A poet, playwright, and translator, Rowe was poet laureate to George I. and known for his tragedies like “The Fair Penitent” and “Jane Shore.”
John Sheffield, Duke of Buckingham: A nobleman, statesman, poet, and soldier, Buckingham was a patron of the arts and known for his “Historical Memoirs” and his literary criticism.
Charles Cotton: A poet and translator, Cotton was known for his works of burlesque verse, including his “Scarronides” and his translation of Montaigne’s essays.
Anne, Countess of Winchelsea: A poet known for her works on the Spleen and her tragedy “Aristomenes,” the Countess of Winchelsea was a close friend of Alexander Pope.
Charles Gildon: A playwright, critic, and controversial writer, Gildon is known for his critical commentary and his often-unsuccessful dramatic works.
Thomas D’Urfey: A prolific playwright, songwriter, and ballad writer, D’Urfey was known for his humorous and popular works, which entertained both the court and the public.
Elkanah Settle: A poet and playwright, Settle was known for his political allegiances and his involvement in literary battles, most notably with John Dryden.

Themes:

Power and Patronage: The text explores the power dynamics of court life and the crucial role of patrons in shaping the careers of poets.
Ambition and Fame: The pursuit of literary fame and recognition is a recurring theme, showcasing the poets’ drive and their determination to achieve success.
Morality and Society: The text delves into the moral dilemmas of the poets, their relationships with society’s expectations, and the consequences of their actions.
Political and Religious Conflict: The text highlights the impact of political and religious conflict on the lives of poets, demonstrating how their works were often influenced by these tensions.
The Power of Language: The text emphasizes the power of language to shape opinions, influence politics, and create a lasting legacy.

Principles:

Social Hierarchy and Power: The text implicitly highlights the importance of social hierarchy and the influence of powerful individuals, showcasing how patronage and political connections often determined the success of poets.
The Power of Wit and Eloquence: The text emphasizes the value of wit, eloquence, and social charm in gaining the favor of the court and achieving recognition.
The Importance of Moral Character: Although the text depicts the poets’ flaws, it generally affirms the importance of moral character and integrity, demonstrating how these qualities can be crucial for achieving both personal and professional success.

Intentions of the characters in the text or the reader of the text:

Poets: The poets aimed to achieve literary recognition, gain patronage, express their beliefs, and leave a lasting legacy through their works.
Reader: A reader might be seeking knowledge about the history of English poetry, insights into the lives of famous writers, an understanding of the literary and social landscapes of the 17th and 18th centuries, and a deeper appreciation for the works of these poets.

Unique Vocabulary:

Pindaric Ode: A type of poem named after the ancient Greek poet Pindar, characterized by its complex structure and elevated language.
Burlesque Verse: A comedic form of poetry that mocks or imitates serious styles, often with humorous effect.
Interloper: A ship or company involved in trade that is not authorized by the official trading company.
Ignoramus: A legal term indicating that a grand jury does not find sufficient evidence to indict a defendant.
Trap Door: A secret opening in the stage floor used for dramatic entrances and exits in theatrical productions.

Anecdotes:

Denham and King Charles I: The story of King Charles I. discouraging Denham from writing poetry reveals a contrasting view of poetry between the King and the public.
Killegrew’s Wager: The anecdote of Killegrew convincing Charles II. to attend the Council meeting by suggesting that Lauderdale would hang himself rather than pay a lost wager highlights Killegrew’s wit and Charles II.’s love of humor.
Mountford’s Murder: The tragic tale of Mountford’s murder by Captain Hill, instigated by jealousy and a thwarted kidnapping attempt, showcases the dark side of the Restoration era’s social landscape.
Dryden and the Nativity: The story of Dryden calculating his son’s nativity and predicting his death reveals a side of the great poet that is both humorous and superstitious.
Farquhar’s Tragedy Turned Real: Farquhar’s accidental wounding of a fellow actor during a play, which led to his abandoning his acting career, highlights the precariousness of the theatrical profession.
Mrs. Oldfield’s Entry into Acting: The anecdote of Captain Farquhar discovering Mrs. Oldfield’s talent for acting while she was reading a play behind the bar showcases the serendipitous nature of success.
Wycherley’s Meeting with the Duchess of Cleveland: The story of Wycherley’s witty encounter with the Duchess of Cleveland, which led to their relationship, demonstrates how humor and social grace could lead to unexpected connections.
The Duke of Buckingham’s Duel: The account of the Duke of Buckingham’s planned duel with the Earl of Rochester reveals the volatile nature of social conflicts during the Restoration and the importance of reputation in maintaining social standing.
The Burning of Pomfret’s Poems: The story of Bishop Compton’s initial refusal to ordain Pomfret because of a perceived implication of a mistress in Pomfret’s poem “The Choice” showcases the impact of social and religious conservatism on a poet’s career.
Bishop Sprat’s Commission: Bishop Sprat’s reluctance to serve on the Ecclesiastical Commission, which he later renounced, reveals the ethical struggles of clergy navigating political pressures.
The Death of Dryden: The story of Dryden’s funeral, marked by controversy and rivalry, emphasizes the conflicting views surrounding the poet’s legacy and the clashing political forces that shaped the literary landscape.
Addison’s “Cato”: The anecdote of the Whig and Tory parties applauding Addison’s play “Cato” reveals how political ideologies could be projected onto works of art, regardless of the artist’s intentions.

Ideas:

The Power of Literature: The text explores the power of literature to shape opinions, influence politics, and immortalize individuals through their works.
The Role of Patronage: The text examines the role of patronage in the literary world, discussing how the relationship between writers and powerful patrons influenced artistic production and the flow of ideas.
The Nature of Genius: The text explores the concept of genius, discussing the different forms it takes, its potential for great achievement and its susceptibility to flaws and weaknesses.
Social and Political Conflict: The text reflects on the impact of social and political conflict on the lives of poets, highlighting how these tensions shaped their perspectives and influenced their writings.
The Importance of Integrity: Despite showcasing the poets’ flaws, the text ultimately affirms the importance of integrity, morality, and a commitment to truth in navigating a complex and often-corrupt world.

Facts and findings:

The Restoration Era: The text highlights the cultural and literary flourishing that took place during the Restoration period, after the English Civil War. This era saw the rise of new literary forms, including the heroic play, and a surge of theatrical activity.
The Theatrical World: The text reveals the intricacies of the theatrical world of the 17th and 18th centuries, including the rivalries between acting companies, the role of patrons in supporting theatrical productions, and the challenges of playwrights in getting their works produced.
Political Parties: The text provides insights into the development of political parties in England, showing how poets aligned themselves with Whig or Tory factions, often with significant consequences for their careers.
Literary Feuds: The text details the literary feuds between writers, such as the famous rivalry between Dryden and Shadwell, which were often fueled by political and religious differences.
The Impact of Patronage: The text demonstrates how patronage, both from royalty and wealthy individuals, played a crucial role in shaping the careers of poets, providing them with financial support, social access, and opportunities for advancement.

Statistics:

Salary of Actors: The text notes that actors, even those at the top of their profession, received relatively modest salaries in the 17th century, with Mr. Hart, the greatest performer at the King’s Theatre, earning only three pounds a week.
Dryden’s Literary Output: The text mentions that Dryden wrote twenty-seven dramatic pieces and six volumes of Miscellanies, illustrating his prolific nature.
Success of “The Spectator”: The text highlights the immense popularity of “The Spectator,” with twenty-thousand copies sometimes sold in a day.

Points of View:

Third-Person Narrative: The text is written from a third-person perspective, providing an objective and detached view of the poets’ lives and works. This allows for a balanced presentation of information, avoiding overly subjective interpretations.
Historical Perspective: The author uses a historical perspective, drawing on primary sources and contemporary accounts to provide context for the poets’ lives and works. This allows for a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the poets’ motivations and the social forces that shaped their creative output.

Perspective:

Literary Merit: The text primarily presents a perspective on the literary merit of the poets, highlighting their talents and contributions to English literature. This is evident in the author’s detailed descriptions of their works and the inclusion of critical commentary from other writers.
Social and Political Context: The text also offers a perspective on the social and political context in which the poets lived and worked. This allows readers to understand how the poets’ lives were shaped by their time and how they responded to the political and cultural movements that surrounded them.

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