The Puritan Age: English Literature (1600-1660)

The Literature of the Seventeenth Century can be divided into two distinct periods: The Puritan Age, also known as the Age of Milton, and the Restoration Period or the Age of Dryden (1660-1700).

The Seventeenth Century witnessed the decline of the Renaissance spirit in England. Writers either emulated the great masters of the Elizabethan period or forged new paths, marking a shift towards a more modern temperament.

The spirit of the age was characterized by a keen sense of observation, a systematic analysis of facts, feelings, and ideas, and a growing interest in realism. This intellectual climate, akin to the scientific spirit popularized by figures like Newton, Bacon, and Descartes, fostered a new era of literary criticism and introspection.

The Rise of Biography and Realism

A significant development during this period was the popularization of biography, previously unknown in the Sixteenth Century. Authors like Fuller and Aubrey meticulously chronicled the lives of prominent figures, reflecting a growing interest in the intimate details of real men and women.

Autobiography, diaries, and journals also gained popularity, exemplified by Pepys' Diary and Fox's Journal, catering to a demand for personal introspection and a deeper understanding of human experience.

Realism in Literature

This newfound taste for realism was also evident in the literary form of the 'Character', brief essays describing contemporary types such as the tobacco-seller or the old shoemaker. In drama, there was a notable shift towards satirical portrayals of fashionable society and political factions.

Unlike the medieval emphasis on chivalry and romantic ideals found in Spenser and Sidney, the Puritan Age literature focused on sober reflection and moral seriousness, reflecting the changing socio-political landscape.

Puritanism and Its Influence

The Seventeenth Century up to 1660 was dominated by Puritanism, a movement characterized by its moral and religious zeal. Often referred to as the Puritan Age or the Age of Milton, it represented a second Renaissance, emphasizing personal righteousness and civil liberties.

Puritanism arose as a reaction to the perceived excesses of the Renaissance, promoting moral sobriety and high ideals in politics and religion. Figures like John Milton and Oliver Cromwell epitomized this spirit, advocating for liberty and toleration amidst political turmoil.

Despite later criticisms of Puritans as narrow-minded and austere, they played a pivotal role in English history by challenging despotism and championing individual freedoms.

Literary Figures of the Puritan Age

• John Milton: Renowned for his epic poem 'Paradise Lost', Milton exemplified the Puritan spirit with his profound exploration of religious and political themes.
• Thomas Fuller and John Aubrey: Pioneers in biographical writing, their works laid the foundation for the modern genre of biography.
• Samuel Pepys and George Fox: Notable for their autobiographical writings, providing invaluable insights into their respective times.

Legacy of the Puritan Age

Although the Puritan Age is often viewed as a period of literary and cultural restraint, it laid the groundwork for future developments in English literature and thought. Its emphasis on moral integrity and personal reflection left a lasting imprint on subsequent generations.