A Guide to Literary Genres - Sykalo Eugen 2023
Classicism
Definition: Literary style refers to the distinctive manner in which an author expresses their thoughts, ideas, and emotions through language and literary devices. It encompasses the choices an author makes regarding vocabulary, syntax, sentence structure, tone, imagery, and other elements that contribute to the overall aesthetic and communicative qualities of a text. In the context of classicism, literary style is characterized by adherence to principles and ideals that emphasize order, balance, clarity, and decorum.
Key Features of Classicism:
1. Clarity and Rationality: Classicism emphasizes clear and straightforward language that is easily understood by a wide audience. Rationality and logic take precedence over emotional excess or obscure expressions.
2. Balance and Harmony: Classicism seeks a harmonious balance between different elements of a text, whether in terms of plot structure, character development, or use of literary devices. This balance reflects the ideal of order and symmetry.
3. Formal Diction: Classicist writers tend to use formal language, relying on a more elevated vocabulary and structured sentence patterns. This choice reflects the notion of maintaining decorum and adhering to established linguistic norms.
4. Universal Themes: Classicist works often explore universal themes that transcend time and culture, such as human nature, morality, and the conflict between duty and desire.
5. Restrained Emotion: Emotion is expressed in a controlled and measured manner, avoiding excessive sentimentality or melodrama. Classicism values emotional restraint and moderation.
6. Moral Instruction: Classicist literature often aims to provide moral guidance and education to readers, presenting characters who embody virtues and vices, leading to didactic storytelling.
7. Inspiration from Antiquity: Classicist writers draw inspiration from the literature, art, and philosophy of ancient Greece and Rome. They may emulate classical forms, themes, and ideals in their works.
Representatives of Classicism:
1. Virgil (70—19 BCE): A Roman poet known for his epic poem "The Aeneid," which follows the journey of Aeneas, a hero of Troy, as he establishes the foundations of Rome. Virgil's work embodies many classicist ideals, including the use of mythology to convey moral lessons.
2. Molière (1622—1673): A French playwright renowned for his comedies that satirized the society and manners of his time. His plays, such as "Tartuffe" and "The Misanthrope," showcase wit, well-structured plots, and a focus on moral themes.
3. Alexander Pope (1688—1744): An English poet celebrated for his satirical and philosophical works. His poem "The Rape of the Lock" is a classicist mock-epic that combines humor with a careful attention to form and balance.
4. Jane Austen (1775—1817): An English novelist known for her realistic depictions of social manners and relationships. Her novels, including "Pride and Prejudice" and "Emma," exhibit classicist principles of balance, clarity, and moral instruction.
5. Jean Racine (1639—1699): A French dramatist famous for his tragedies, such as "Phèdre" and "Andromaque," which are characterized by their emotional restraint, adherence to formal rules, and exploration of complex moral dilemmas.
These representatives illustrate how classicism influenced literature across various genres and cultural contexts, emphasizing enduring qualities of order, rationality, and balance in artistic expression.