The Restoration period in English literature refers to the era that followed the Civil War and the Puritan Commonwealth. This period began in 1660, when King Charles II was restored to the throne after the Puritan dictatorship, and lasted until 1688 when the Glorious Revolution took place. During this time, English literature saw a significant shift in style and subject matter, marking a transition from the austerity and moralism of the Puritans to a more relaxed and hedonistic approach.
The Restoration period in English literature was a time of great change and experimentation. Here are some of the most significant events that occurred during this era:
Restoration of the Monarchy: In 1660, King Charles II was restored to the throne after the Puritan Commonwealth, which had banned theater and other forms of entertainment. The restoration of the monarchy marked the beginning of a new era in English literature.
Reopening of the Theaters: With the restoration of the monarchy came the reopening of the theaters, which had been closed during the Puritan regime. Playwriting became a popular form of entertainment, and Restoration drama emerged as a new genre.
The Emergence of the Novel: The novel as a literary genre emerged during the Restoration period, with the publication of Aphra Behn's Oroonoko in 1688. Other notable works include Samuel Richardson's Pamela (1740) and Henry Fielding's Tom Jones (1749).
Restoration Drama: Restoration drama was characterized by its wit, humor, and satire, as well as its exploration of themes such as love, sex, and social class. Playwrights such as William Wycherley, George Etherege, and William Congreve wrote plays that were notorious for their bawdy humor and frank depiction of sexual relationships.
John Dryden: John Dryden is often referred to as the father of English poetry. His work was characterized by its elegance and its use of heroic couplets, which became a popular form of verse during this time.
Royal Society: The Royal Society was founded in 1660, with the aim of promoting scientific research and experimentation. The works of scientists such as Isaac Newton and Robert Boyle had a profound impact on literature of the time.
The Glorious Revolution: The Glorious Revolution of 1688 marked the end of the Restoration period. It saw the overthrow of King James II and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy under William and Mary.
Here are some of the most notable writers and their works from the Restoration Period:
John Dryden: John Dryden was a poet, playwright, and critic who was the leading literary figure of the Restoration Period. He wrote plays such as "All for Love," "Marriage A-la-Mode," and "The Conquest of Granada," as well as epic poems such as "Annus Mirabilis" and "Absalom and Achitophel." Dryden also wrote influential critical works, including "An Essay of Dramatic Poesy" and "Discourses Concerning Satire and Epic Poetry."
Aphra Behn: Aphra Behn was a playwright, poet, and novelist who was one of the first English women to earn a living through writing. Her plays, such as "The Rover" and "The Widow Ranter," were notable for their bawdy humor and exploration of sexual themes. Behn also wrote several novels, including "Oroonoko," which is often considered one of the earliest examples of the English novel.
John Wilmot, Earl of Rochester: John Wilmot, also known as the Earl of Rochester, was a poet and playwright who was notorious for his scandalous behavior and libertine lifestyle. His poetry, such as "A Satire Against Reason and Mankind" and "Upon Nothing," was marked by its irreverence and skepticism.
Thomas Otway: Thomas Otway was a playwright who wrote tragic plays such as "Venice Preserved" and "The Orphan." His works were noted for their powerful emotional impact and exploration of themes such as love, betrayal, and honor.
William Wycherley: William Wycherley was a playwright who wrote bawdy and satirical plays such as "The Country Wife" and "The Plain Dealer." His works were notable for their exploration of sexual themes and their criticism of social and political institutions.
George Etherege: George Etherege was a playwright who wrote comedies of manners such as "The Man of Mode." His works were noted for their witty dialogue and exploration of social and cultural mores.
John Bunyan: John Bunyan was a writer and preacher who is best known for his allegorical novel "The Pilgrim's Progress." The novel, which tells the story of Christian's journey from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City, was widely read and became a classic of English literature.
Samuel Pepys: Samuel Pepys was a writer and diarist who kept a detailed record of his daily life during the Restoration Period. His diaries provide a fascinating glimpse into the social, political, and cultural landscape of the time, and are a valuable historical document.
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