AUGUSTANISM Meaning and
Definition
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Augustanism refers to a literary movement that emerged during the 18th century in England. It takes its name from the reign of Augustus, the Roman emperor known for his patronage of arts and literature. Augustanism is characterized by a specific set of aesthetic, moral, and social principles that influenced the works of poets, essayists, and satirists of the time.
In poetry, Augustanism is marked by a focus on order, reason, and restraint. Poets belonging to this movement, such as Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift, employed neoclassical forms and styles, drawing inspiration from the works of ancient Greek and Roman poets like Virgil and Horace. They favored a refined and eloquent language, employing wit, satire, and irony to comment on contemporary societal issues.
Augustan essayists, like Joseph Addison and Richard Steele, celebrated the ideals of reason, moderation, and moral virtue. Their writings, often appearing in periodicals like The Spectator, sought to educate and entertain a growing middle-class readership. These essays encompassed a wide range of subjects, including politics, ethics, society, and literature itself.
Additionally, Augustanism extended beyond the literary realm, manifesting in the visual arts and architecture of the time. Neoclassical designs and classical motifs were popular, reflecting the ideals of harmony, proportion, and stability championed during the Augustan age.
Overall, Augustanism embodies the pursuit of order, structure, and rationality in both literature and other cultural expressions. It represents a reaction against the excesses of the preceding Restoration period and serves as a significant influence on subsequent literary movements.
Etymology of AUGUSTANISM
The word "Augustanism" is derived from the root word "Augustan" and the suffix "-ism".
The term "Augustan" originates from the Latin word "Augustus", which means "revered" or "illustrious". "Augustus" was the title given to the Roman emperor Gaius Octavius, who established the Roman Empire and was considered a highly influential leader. During his rule, which lasted from 27 BCE to 14 CE, there was a period of stability, peace, and cultural revival in Rome. This period became known as the "Augustan Age".
The suffix "-ism" is used to form nouns that denote a particular system, ideology, or practice. In this case, it is added to "Augustan" to create "Augustanism", which refers to the literary style and principles that emerged during the Augustan Age in Rome.
