17th Century Terms to Know

Question 1

Epigrams

Answer 1

a short poem in which the writer strives for brevity, clarity, and permanence (Brevity = be brief, Clarity = everyone should be able to understand, Permanence = the main idea that hits home and stays with us)

Question 2

Metaphysical Poetry

Answer 2

Metaphysical Poetry: poetry characterized by intellectual displays and concern with metaphysical, or philosophical, issues (uses Conceits and Paradoxes)

Question 3

Paradox

Answer 3

images or descriptions that appear self-contradictory but that reveal a deeper truth

Question 4

Conceits

Answer 4

extended comparisons that link objects or ideas not commonly associated, often mixing abstract ideas and emotional matters

Question 5

Carpe Diem Theme

Answer 5

“time is fleeting, so act decisively to enjoy life” (these poets only care about one thing sex)

Question 6

Epic

Answer 6

a long narrative poem about a hero

Question 7

Cavalier Poetry

Answer 7

ultimate theme is “seize the day” (Carpe Diem), straightforward language, celebration of the social and material pleasures of life, and a sense that one should enjoy these pleasures while one can, since both they and life itself are fleeting

Question 8

Petrarchan Sonnet

Answer 8

a sonnet composed of a group of eight lines (octave) with two rhymes abba abba, and a group of six lines (sestet) with two or three rhymes variously arranged, typically cde cde or cdc dcd