Poets, Politics, and Public Drama

September 2022
Royal Historical Society

Poets, Politics, and Public Drama

Introduction

Dive into the intriguing world of Britain's Poet Laureates during the long eighteenth century with our latest read! This fascinating article from the Royal Historical Society uncovers how these literary figures, from John Dryden to Robert Southey, shaped and were shaped by the evolving relationship between the court and the public. Through a mix of scandal, politics, and poetry, discover how these poets left their mark on British culture. It's history with a side of drama - who knew the Poet Laureate's job was so juicy?

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Why It Matters

Discover how this topic shapes your world and future

Unveiling the Verse of History

Imagine stepping into a world where poetry is not just words on a page but a vibrant part of public life and history. The Poets Laureate of the Long Eighteenth Century weren't just writers; they were the voice of an era, navigating the complex dance between the royal court and the public. Their role tells us a fascinating story about power, culture, and identity in a time of great change. By exploring this topic, you're not just learning about history or literature; you're uncovering how art can influence society and vice versa. It's a journey that shows how creativity can shape national identity and reflect the spirit of the times. This isn't just about old poems; it's about understanding the forces that still shape our world today.

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Laureateship

The position of being an officially appointed poet of a country, often tasked with writing poems for state occasions.

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Panegyrist

A writer who composes formal speeches or texts in praise of someone or something, showcasing admiration and respect.

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Ex cathedra works

Literally meaning ""from the chair,"" it refers to official statements made by a person in authority, like the poet laureate’s official poems.

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Non-ex cathedra works

These are works produced by an individual not in their official capacity but as a private person.

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Interdisciplinary

Combining two or more academic disciplines into one activity (like studying the poets laureate from both a historical and literary perspective).

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Conceptual geography of culture

A way of understanding culture that uses spatial concepts, illustrating how cultural spaces can be both physical places and abstract ideas.

Independent Research Ideas

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The evolution of the laureateship

Investigate how the role of the Poet Laureate has changed from the long eighteenth century to the present day. This could reveal how cultural values and public expectations have shifted over time.

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Poetry as public discourse

Explore how the odes and poems of the laureates were used as tools for public engagement and political commentary. This study could offer insights into the power of poetry beyond the arts.

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The role of the court in cultural production

Examine the court's influence on artistic and cultural production during the eighteenth century. This could shed light on how power and art interacted in shaping national identity.

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Spatial concepts in cultural understanding

Analyze how people in the eighteenth century used spatial concepts to understand culture. This could lead to a deeper appreciation of how we conceptualize cultural spaces today.

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Comparative study of laureates and their genres

Compare the works of different Poets Laureate, focusing on their contributions to various literary genres. This could highlight the diversity of talent and the range of cultural commentary provided by these poets.