Laurence Eusden, born in 1688, was a prominent English poet in the early 18th century, and though his name has somewhat faded from the annals of literary history, his works played an important role in shaping the landscape of English poetry during the late Baroque and early Augustan periods. Eusden’s poetry, characterized by its classical style and exploration of themes of patriotism, morality, and human emotion, mirrors the poetic trends of his time, even though he has often been overshadowed by the towering figures of his contemporaries. This article delves into the life, works, and significance of Laurence Eusden within the broader context of English poetry, particularly comparing his contributions to those of other poets of the 17th century, and examining how his works reflected and responded to the political, social, and literary currents of his era.
Early Life and Education
Laurence Eusden was born in 1688 in the County of Yorkshire, England. Little is known about his early life, but it is known that he was well-educated and attended the prestigious St. John’s College at Cambridge University, where he honed his literary talents. This academic background was typical of many 17th century English poets who sought formal education in the classics, philosophy, and the arts, which provided them with the tools necessary to engage in the intellectual debates of their time. At Cambridge, Eusden’s talent for poetry began to emerge, and he quickly gained recognition for his work.
Eusden’s works reflect his classical training and his understanding of the Latin and Greek poets, which were central to the education of many 17th century English poets. His writing also exhibits the moral and civic virtues that were idealized in the Augustan period, making him a representative figure of his time.
Literary Style and Influences
As a 17th century English poet, Eusden’s work fits within a literary tradition that spans from the late Renaissance through the Baroque era and into the early Enlightenment. This was a period of great change in England, particularly in terms of political upheaval, scientific advancement, and shifts in social norms. Eusden’s poetry was shaped by the poetic trends of the Augustan era, which were characterized by a return to classical ideals, a focus on reason and order, and a strong sense of civic responsibility.
His writing displays a blend of Baroque ornamentation and classical simplicity. Like many poets of his time, Eusden was influenced by the works of earlier poets such as John Dryden, Alexander Pope, and Edmund Waller. These poets were shaping what we now know as Augustan poetry, emphasizing clarity, formality, and wit. Eusden’s style can be seen as a reflection of this tradition, yet with a distinct voice that combined the moral seriousness of the era with a subtle emotional depth.
His use of heroic couplets, for example, mirrors the style popularized by Dryden and Pope, and it is in these couplets that Eusden often demonstrates his skill in blending rhyme and rhythm with the philosophical content of his poetry. Eusden’s poems are full of reflections on human nature, the state, and the divine, which reflects the concerns of his era—concerns that other English poets of the 17th century, such as John Milton and Andrew Marvell, also grappled with.
Themes in Eusden’s Poetry
One of the most prominent themes in Eusden’s poetry is his engagement with civic virtues and national pride. Much of his work reflects the political and cultural climate of his time, particularly the impact of the Glorious Revolution and the subsequent formation of the British monarchy. Like many of his contemporaries, Eusden sought to portray England as a moral and political model for the world, aligning himself with the tradition of English poets who wrote in praise of the monarchy and the nation’s greatness.
Eusden’s patriotism is evident in his poems that explore national identity and the role of England in the broader European context. This sense of pride in his country is reminiscent of the works of Dryden, who similarly celebrated England’s monarchy and political stability in the wake of turbulent political times. Eusden’s reverence for England’s strength and prosperity also links him to the wider tradition of Augustan poetry, which celebrated reason, progress, and social order.
Another key theme in Eusden’s work is the exploration of moral values and human nature. Like other English poets of the period, Eusden used his poetry as a vehicle for moral instruction. His poems often reflect the prevailing interest in virtue, morality, and the human condition. This is particularly apparent in his occasional verses, which were a popular form during the Augustan period. Eusden’s exploration of moral dilemmas and ethical questions often serves as a reflection of the broader intellectual climate of the time, which emphasized reason and rationality over emotion and superstition.
Additionally, Eusden’s poetry often grapples with religious themes, which was common among poets of the 17th century. His works show a deep respect for divine providence and reflect the religious debates of the time. His poetry at times seeks to reconcile human suffering with the divine order, a theme that connects him to poets like John Milton, whose epic Paradise Lost also sought to explain the relationship between humanity and God.
Eusden in the Context of His Contemporaries
Although Laurence Eusden is often regarded as one of the lesser-known English poets of the 17th century, his work is crucial for understanding the development of English poetry during the late Baroque and early Augustan periods. Comparing Eusden with his contemporaries allows us to place him within a broader literary and cultural context. His work shares many similarities with that of poets like Alexander Pope, John Dryden, and Edmund Waller, though he remains somewhat distinct due to his relatively quieter literary reputation.
Dryden, for example, was a central figure in the evolution of English poetry during the 17th century and was a mentor to many younger poets, including Pope. Dryden’s use of satire, wit, and political commentary influenced much of the poetry that followed, including Eusden’s. However, whereas Dryden’s works often engaged with the political and social issues of the day through biting satire, Eusden’s poetry was more inclined towards moral and religious themes, offering a more solemn and contemplative tone.
Similarly, Alexander Pope, who is often hailed as one of the most significant poets of the early 18th century, shared many of Eusden’s classical influences. Pope’s satirical wit and mastery of the heroic couplet established him as the dominant figure of the period. In contrast, Eusden’s work is more formal and less infused with the sharp critical edge that defines Pope’s poetry. Nevertheless, both poets were deeply concerned with the relationship between humanity and the state, and both sought to promote a vision of society that was orderly, moral, and guided by reason.
Eusden’s works also show some stylistic similarities to those of Edmund Waller, a poet known for his smooth, elegant style and his ability to convey emotion through simple and refined language. Like Waller, Eusden sought clarity and simplicity in his verse, although Eusden’s work often carried a more serious and solemn tone.
The Legacy of Laurence Eusden
Although Laurence Eusden’s poetry did not achieve the same fame or influence as that of his contemporaries, his works nonetheless contributed to the development of English poetry in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. His ability to combine classical influences with a clear moral vision and an exploration of human nature places him within the tradition of the great English poets of his era.
Eusden’s legacy is also tied to his role in the literary scene of his time. He was appointed poet laureate in 1718, a significant honor that placed him in the company of the most respected poets of his era. His tenure as poet laureate was marked by a commitment to writing verse in honor of the monarchy and national events. Although his work as laureate has not been as celebrated as that of other laureates such as Dryden or Wordsworth, it nonetheless reflects the civic and patriotic sensibilities that were central to the Augustan vision of poetry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Laurence Eusden was a poet who embodied the moral and civic virtues that characterized much of the poetry of his time. His engagement with classical themes, his exploration of human nature, and his reflection on the political and social concerns of his era place him firmly within the tradition of 17th century English poetry. While his reputation may not be as enduring as that of some of his contemporaries, Eusden’s work offers valuable insight into the evolution of English poetry in a time of intellectual and cultural transformation.
