1. Introduction to Neo-Classicism

2. Why the name? Reverence for classical authors
Imitation of classical forms
Use of aesthetic principles from classical authors

3. Views of the world Hierarchical: Great Chain of Being
Humans in the middle
Especially prominent sin, therefore: pride.

4. View of poetry Emphasis on craft Poetry is mimesis
Decorum
Poetry is mimesis
Serves public function
Poets represent “nature” (what is permanently true)
Tends to depict universals & abstractions

5. Different from the Renaissance:
New (old) forms prominent
Prosody favors heroic couplets
Dominant mode is satire

6. Satire complicates things:
Fits emphasis on pride, but…
Mock epic, for example: violates decorum?
In general, double-edged; undercuts certitude
Complex attitude towards authority
Fits the middle rungs on the Chain

7. Why, historically? Among the reasons:
English Civil War: Charles I executed 1649, restoration of Charles II 1660.
hence "Augustan":
reigned in ancient Rome after period of chaos
era of Virgil, Horace, Ovid
but Augustus was a tyrant