Restoration Period in English literature | Age of Dryden | 20 one liner question answers

The Restoration period in English literature refers to the time between 1660 and 1700, characterized by significant cultural, political, and literary developments following the restoration of the monarchy under King Charles II. Here's an overview of the Restoration period in English literature:
1. *Historical Context:*
The Restoration began in 1660 with the return of King Charles II to the throne after the collapse of the Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell and his son, Richard Cromwell.
The period marked the end of the English Civil War and the Interregnum, a turbulent time of republican rule.
Charles II's reign was characterized by a restoration of the monarchy, the reestablishment of the Church of England, and a general sense of social and political stability.
2. *Literary Characteristics:*
Restoration literature was marked by a shift from the religious and political concerns of the Puritan era to a focus on wit, satire, and social commentary.
The period saw the rise of the Restoration comedy, which featured witty dialogue, intricate plots, and satirical depictions of contemporary society.
Drama flourished during this time, with playwrights like William Wycherley, William Congreve, and George Etherege producing comedies of manners that satirized the manners and morals of the upper class.
Poetry during the Restoration period was characterized by a departure from the metaphysical poetry of the previous era, favoring polished verse and classical forms influenced by French and Italian models.
Prose literature saw the emergence of the novel as a popular literary form, with works like Aphra Behn's "Oroonoko" considered early examples of the novel in English literature.
3. *Key Literary Figures:*
John Dryden, often regarded as the leading literary figure of the period, dominated Restoration poetry and criticism with his neoclassical ideals and polished verse.
Aphra Behn, one of the first professional female writers in English literature, was celebrated for her plays, novels, and poetry that challenged gender norms and explored themes of love and betrayal.
Restoration playwrights like William Wycherley, William Congreve, and George Etherege were known for their witty comedies of manners, which critiqued the hypocrisy and moral corruption of the aristocracy.
4. *Legacy:*
The Restoration period left a lasting impact on English literature, shaping subsequent literary movements and genres.
Restoration comedy influenced later forms of comedy and satire, including the comedy of manners popular in the 18th century and the satirical novels of the 18th and 19th centuries.
The period also laid the groundwork for the rise of the novel as a dominant literary form, with early novels like "Oroonoko" paving the way for the development of the English novel in the 18th century.
Overall, the Restoration period in English literature was a time of innovation, creativity, and social commentary, characterized by its wit, satire, and exploration of human nature and society.
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