Caroline Period | Caroline Age (1625 – 1649)

Introduction

The Caroline Age, spanning from 1625 to 1649, marks the period of Charles I’s reign in England. Named after Charles I (derived from the Latin Carolus), this era is significant not only for its political upheavals, including the English Civil War (1642–1651), but also for its vibrant contributions to English literature. This period, which overlaps with the Thirty Years’ War in Central Europe, is characterized by notable developments in both poetry and drama. The literary output of the Caroline Age can be divided into two primary sections: Poetry and Poets, and Drama and Dramatists. Each of these categories reflects the complex interplay of political, social, and religious dynamics of the time.

Background

1. The Caroline era, which spans the reign of King Charles I from 1625 to 1649, is a pivotal period in English history. This era is named after Charles I, with the term “Caroline” derived from Carolus, the Latin form of Charles. This period was marked by significant historical and political upheaval, including the English Civil War, which ranged from 1642 to 1651 and pitted Royalists against Parliamentarians in a struggle for control of the country.
2. The term “Caroline” reflects the influence of King Charles I, whose reign was characterized by political strife and conflict. This period is notable for its association with a complex and turbulent time in English history, including significant changes in political, social, and religious spheres.
3. The English Civil War, a major conflict during the Caroline era, was a series of armed struggles between the Royalists, who supported King Charles I, and the Parliamentarians, led by figures like Oliver Cromwell. The war had profound effects on the country’s governance and social structure, leading to the eventual execution of Charles I and the temporary establishment of the Commonwealth under Cromwell.
4. Simultaneously, the Thirty Years’ War, which lasted from 1618 to 1648, unfolded across Central Europe. Though geographically distant, the conflict had indirect repercussions on England, influencing political alignments and contributing to the broader European context of the time.

Characteristics

1. Civil War: The Caroline era was heavily influenced by the English Civil War, a period of intense conflict that disrupted the political and social order of the time. The war’s impact extended beyond the battlefield, affecting every aspect of life in England, from governance to daily life.
2. Rise of Puritanism: During this period, Puritanism gained significant traction. The Puritans, advocating for a more rigorous and austere form of Protestantism, challenged the established Church of England and sought to reform both religious practices and societal norms. Their rise contributed to the era’s religious and ideological tensions.
3. Lack of Spirit of Unity: The period was marked by a pronounced lack of national unity. The civil war exacerbated divisions within English society, creating a fragmented political landscape. The absence of a cohesive national identity was a defining characteristic of the era, reflecting the broader struggles for control and influence.
4. Dominance of Intellectual Spirit: The Caroline era saw a flourishing of intellectual and philosophical thought. The period was characterized by a vibrant intellectual environment, with significant contributions to literature, philosophy, and science. This intellectual spirit was reflected in the works of contemporary poets and playwrights who engaged with complex themes and ideas.
5. Decline of Drama: Despite the rich literary output of the period, drama experienced a decline in popularity and production. The political and social upheavals of the time contributed to a shift away from the dramatic arts, leading to a relative decline in the performance and creation of theatrical works.

Literature

The literature of the Caroline Age can be broadly divided into two main categories:

1. Poetry and Poets: The poetry of the Caroline era is distinguished by its diversity and depth. The period saw the emergence of notable poets, including both Metaphysical Poets and Cavalier Poets.
2. Drama and Dramatists: The Caroline era’s dramatic literature is marked by the works of significant playwrights such as Philip Massinger and John Ford.

Poetry and Poets

The poetry of the Caroline Age is distinguished by its division into two primary groups: the Metaphysical Poets and the Cavalier Poets. Each group represents a distinct style and thematic focus, reflecting the diverse intellectual and emotional currents of the period.

1. Metaphysical Poets

The term “Metaphysical Poets” was coined by Samuel Johnson in his 1779–81 work, Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets. This group is known for its complex, often abstract approach to poetry, marked by intellectual wit and elaborate conceits.

• George Herbert (1593–1633)

George Herbert, a prominent Metaphysical poet, is renowned for his devotional poetry that explores religious themes through a unique and personal lens. His seminal collection, The Temple: Sacred Poems and Private Ejaculations (1633), showcases his deep spirituality and intricate use of language. Notable poems from this collection include “The Collar,” “The Elixir,” and “The Pulley,” each of which delves into themes of divine love, human struggle, and redemption. Herbert’s prose work, A Priest to the Temple (also known as The Country Parson), published posthumously in 1652, further reflects his commitment to religious life and pastoral care.

• Henry Vaughan (1621–1695)

Henry Vaughan’s poetry is characterized by its mystical quality and meditative tone. His major works include Tenth Satyre of Juvenal Englished (1646) and Silex Scintillans (1650, 1655). These collections, along with his prose work Mount of Olives, or Solitary Devotions (1652), reveal his preoccupation with spiritual introspection and the divine. Vaughan’s poem “The Retreat” exemplifies his mystical vision, reflecting his yearning for a return to a simpler, purer state of being.

• Richard Crashaw (1613–1649)

Richard Crashaw’s poetry is noted for its intense religious fervor and emotional intensity. His works, such as Epigrammatum Sacrorum Liber (1634) and Carmen Del Nostro, are marked by a profound focus on the spiritual and sensual aspects of life. Crashaw’s poetry often explores themes of divine love and personal devotion, revealing a preoccupation with the interplay between the physical and the spiritual realms.

• Abraham Cowley (1618–1667)

Abraham Cowley’s contributions to Metaphysical poetry are notable for their innovation and breadth. His early work, Tragicall History of Piramus and Thisbe (1628), introduced a unique six-line stanza form. Cowley’s epic Davideis (1637), focusing on the adventures of King David, and his pastoral drama Love’s Riddle (1638) reflect his diverse literary interests. Additionally, his political epic The Civil War (1643) demonstrates his engagement with contemporary issues.

• Andrew Marvell (1621–1678)

Andrew Marvell is renowned for his political and lyrical poetry. His poem “An Horatian Ode upon Cromwell’s Return from Ireland” (1650) stands out as a significant political commentary. Marvell’s “To His Coy Mistress,” “Upon Appleton House,” and “The Garden” are celebrated for their wit, lyricism, and exploration of themes such as love, nature, and the passage of time. Marvell’s contribution to Milton’s Paradise Lost with a prefatory poem further highlights his literary significance.

2. Cavalier Poets

The Cavalier Poets, who supported King Charles I during the Civil War, are characterized by their focus on themes of love, pleasure, and loyalty. Their poetry often reflects a celebration of life and personal freedom, contrasting with the more introspective and metaphysical concerns of their contemporaries.

• Robert Herrick (1591–1674)

Robert Herrick’s poetry is best known for its celebration of carpe diem, or “seize the day.” His collection Hesperides (1648) includes the famous poem “To the Virgins, to Make Much of Time,” which encourages readers to make the most of their fleeting youth. Herrick’s work is marked by its lyrical quality and its celebration of both the joys and the transience of life.

• John Suckling (1609–1641/42)

John Suckling’s poetry and plays reflect the Cavalier ethos of wit and elegance. His poem “Ballade upon a Wedding” (1640) exemplifies his skill in crafting light-hearted and engaging verse. Suckling’s play The Goblins (1646), described by Samuel Pepys as “pretty,” showcases his versatility and charm as a dramatist.

• Richard Lovelace (1618–1657/58)

Richard Lovelace’s poetry is infused with themes of loyalty and patriotism, particularly in his poems “To Althea, from Prison” and “To Lucasta, Going to the Warres.” Lovelace’s work reflects his personal commitment to the Royalist cause and his belief in the power of love and honour.

• Thomas Carew (1595–1640)

Thomas Carew’s poetry is noted for its elegance and refinement. His works, including “A Rapture” and “An Elegie upon the death of the Deane of Pauls, Dr. John Donne,” showcase his skill in both lyrical and elegiac verse. Carew’s poetry often explores themes of love, loss, and the nature of artistic creation.

Drama and Dramatists

The Caroline Age also saw significant developments in drama, with notable dramatists contributing to the rich tapestry of English theatre.

• Philip Massinger (1583–1640)

Philip Massinger’s plays are renowned for their satirical and realistic portrayal of social and political issues. His works, including A New Way to Pay Old Debts, The City Madam, and The Roman Actor, are noted for their critique of contemporary society and their exploration of themes such as economic and political corruption. Massinger’s plays often reflect the complexities of human nature and the challenges of maintaining integrity in a turbulent world.

• John Ford (1586–c. 1639)

John Ford’s contributions to drama include The Spanish Gypsy, which he co-wrote with Dekker, Thomas Middleton, and Rowley. Ford’s plays are known for their dark themes and intricate plots, often exploring issues of power, betrayal, and human frailty.

Conclusion

The Caroline Age, with its rich literary output, offers a fascinating glimpse into a period marked by political strife and social change. The poetry of the Metaphysical and Cavalier poets reflects a diverse range of themes and styles, from the intense spiritual reflections of George Herbert and Andrew Marvell to the elegant and celebratory verse of Robert Herrick and John Suckling. The dramas of Philip Massinger and John Ford further enrich the period’s literary landscape, providing a nuanced exploration of contemporary issues and human experiences. Together, these contributions illustrate the depth and complexity of the Caroline Age, highlighting its significance in the evolution of English literature.