Literary Features of the Restoration Period

Literary Features of the Restoration Period
The Restoration period in England, which lasted from 1660 to 1688, was a time of great
change in literature. It followed years of political turmoil and the strict Puritan rule,
leading to a vibrant cultural revival. Writers began to explore new themes and styles,
reflecting the society around them. Here are some key literary features of this
fascinating period, along with examples.
1. Realism
Realism became a significant feature of Restoration literature. Writers aimed to portray
life as it really was, often focusing on the flaws and vices of society rather than romantic
ideals. This shift was a reaction against the overly idealistic literature of the previous era.
In William Wycherley's play "The Country Wife," characters engage in deceitful and
immoral behavior, showcasing the corrupt nature of society at the time. The play
highlights the realities of love and relationships in a candid manner.
2. Comedy of Manners
The Comedy of Manners emerged as a popular genre during this period. These plays
focused on the behaviors and intrigues of the upper classes, often using humor to
critique social norms. William Congreve's "The Way of the World" is a prime example,
featuring witty dialogue and sharp observations about love and marriage among the
elite. The characters navigate a world filled with trickery and deceit, making audiences
laugh while also reflecting on social issues.
3. Satire
Satire became a powerful tool for writers to comment on societal flaws and political
issues. By using humor and exaggeration, authors could address serious topics without
being overly harsh. John Dryden's "Mac Flecknoe" is a classic satire that mocks rival
poets while also critiquing the state of poetry and culture in England. This work
exemplifies how satire was used to entertain while also provoking thought about
societal values.
4. Formalism
Restoration literature showed a trend towards formalism, where writers adhered to
established rules for writing. This shift was influenced by French literature, which
emphasized clarity and structure. John Dryden's works often reflect this formal
approach, using clear language and structured sentences to convey ideas effectively. His
poem "To His Sacred Majesty" showcases his mastery of form while expressing loyalty to
the monarchy.
5. The Heroic Couplet
The use of the heroic couplet, which consists of two rhymed lines in iambic pentameter,
became popular during this time. This form allowed poets to express complex ideas
succinctly. Dryden is known for his skillful use of heroic couplets, making them a defining
feature of his poetry. His ability to convey complete thoughts in this format contributed
to its popularity among later poets like Alexander Pope.
6. Influence of French Literature
The influence of French culture was significant during the Restoration due to Charles II's
time in exile in France. Many English writers adopted elements from French literature,
particularly in drama. Wycherley's "The Plain-Dealer" is based on Molière's French
comedy "The Misanthrope," illustrating how French comedic styles were integrated into
English works.
7. Political Themes
Given that the era was marked by political change—the return of monarchy—politics
played a significant role in Restoration literature. Writers often questioned government
structures and societal roles. Many plays from this period raised questions about
authority and governance, reflecting the ongoing debates about monarchy versus
republicanism that characterized English society at that time.
The Restoration period was a vibrant era for English literature, marked by realism,
comedy, satire, formalism, and political commentary. Writers like John Dryden and
William Congreve explored new themes that reflected their society's complexities while
entertaining audiences with wit and humor. As students studying this period, we can
appreciate how these literary features not only shaped English literature but also
provided insight into the cultural dynamics of their time.

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