Alexander Pope

Alexander Pope as a Neoclassical Critic

Alexander Pope (1688–1744) was one of the most influential poets and critics of the 18th century. Born in London, he suffered from health issues that limited his physical growth but did not hinder his literary genius. He became a key figure in the neoclassical movement, which emphasized order, reason, and classical ideals in literature. Pope’s major works include The Rape of the Lock, The Dunciad, Epistles, and An Essay on Criticism (1711), which remains a cornerstone of neoclassical literary thought.

Introduction

Alexander Pope (1688–1744) was a leading neoclassical critic who helped shape literary standards. Despite his small stature, he was a major figure in literary criticism. His goal was to refine literary taste and set high standards for literature. His critical works include An Essay on Criticism (1711), Preface to Shakespeare (1725), Art of Sinking (1727–28), and he letters. He wrote An Essay on Criticism at just 23,  which is a  key statement of neoclassical literary principles. Unlike John Dryden, who analyzed specific works, Pope focused on general literary principles.

Structure of An Essay on Criticism

The essay follows the Horatian tradition and is divided into four sections:

1. Lines 1–201: Overview of criticism

2. Lines 202–560: Causes of poor literary judgment

3. Lines 561–640: Qualities of a good critic

4. Lines 641–744: Brief history of criticism

Pope’s Views on Literary Judgment

Pope’s essay is a mix of ideas from different periods but lacks a clear structure. He offers practical advice on criticism. Pope believed that criticism should be balanced and guided by reason. His key ideas include:

• Judging a work as a whole rather than focusing on isolated parts.

• Avoiding excessive conceits, as complex metaphors should serve meaning, not style.

• Content over style, where language should enhance, not overshadow, the subject.

• Resisting popular opinions, as critics should base their judgments on knowledge, not trends.

• Avoiding dogmatism and excessive fastidiousness, since rigid rules and overly strict criticism can ruin artistic appreciation.

Pope’s Ideal Critic

A good critic, according to Pope, should:

1. Have deep literary knowledge.

2. Be fair and modest, avoiding arrogance.

3. Not exaggerate minor flaws in a work.

He admired classical critics like Aristotle and believed writers should study ancient texts. He compared Homer to Nature, emphasizing the importance of classical influences. He rejected metaphysical conceits and preferred poetry based on common sense. Pope defined "true wit" as:
"Nature to advantage dressed / What oft was thought, but ne’er so well expressed."

Criticism of Pope

Some critics argue that Pope’s ideas are too general and lack historical depth:

• Watson sees An Essay on Criticism as Dryden’s ideas in verse, admiring Pope’s style but noting his disregard for French influences.

• Some say Pope’s expectations of critics are too idealistic.

• The Augustan Age did not produce lasting critical works, relying on periodicals and short-term criticism.

• Pope is considered bold and direct, using memorable maxims, but some believe his ideas lack originality.

Different Views on An Essay on Criticism

Critics have varied opinions on Pope’s work:

1. Atkins sees it as a valuable collection of insights.

2. Watson believes Pope wrote it too early in his career, making it immature.

3. De Quincey dismisses it as unoriginal.

4. Dr. Johnson praises it as a great didactic work.

5. Ian Jack admires Pope’s use of language and rejection of strict classical rules.

Concept of Wit in Pope’s Essay

Pope uses the word "wit" 47 times in An Essay on Criticism, with four meanings:

1. Intellectual ability (broad thinking)

2. Poetic genius (creativity)

3. Verbal ingenuity (wordplay, which he criticizes)

4. Poetic imagination (balance between creativity and judgment)

He viewed poetry as a mix of imagination and judgment. I.R.F. Gordon sees Pope’s idea of wit as combining genius, creativity, and critical thinking.

Impact of An Essay on Criticism:

An Essay on Criticism does not introduce new literary theories but follows the classical tradition of Aristotle, Horace, Quintilian and others. Pope advises critics to:
"First follow Nature, and your judgment frame / By her just standard, which is still the same."

He saw Nature as the ultimate guide for both writing and criticism. His ideas, though rooted in neoclassicism, emphasize that literature should be natural and inspired, not artificial or overly rigid.

Pope’s Importance as a Neoclassical Critic

Alexander Pope remains one of the most important neoclassical critics because he established enduring literary principles based on clarity, reason, and balance. His An Essay on Criticism continues to be relevant for its insights into literary judgment, the role of critics, and the importance of classical traditions. While some find his ideas too rigid or lacking in originality, his influence on English literary criticism is undeniable. Pope’s emphasis on nature as the ultimate guide for art reflects the core of neoclassical ideals, making him a foundational figure in the history of literary criticism.