Blake context Flashcards
What was Blake’s ultimate aim with his poetry?
A vision of humanity where people could be free.
This solution was revolutionary.
What were Blake’s views on the church?
He was a critic of organized religion hence he disliked the church.
However, he was a deeply spiritual man.
When was Song’s of Innocence published?
1789
When was Song’s of Experience published?
1793
When did Blake’s political radicalism intensify?
During the years leading up to the French Revolution.
He began a seven book poem about the Revolution.
Did Blake disprove enlightenment rationalism?
Yes.
He disliked the idea of using reason and logic as a primary source of knowledge and understanding.
What were Blake’s views on marriage?
He disapproved of the tradition of marriage in its conventional, legal and social form.
What do Songs of Innocence describe?
Songs of Innocence describe childhood states of naturalness and purity revealing the beatific vision of life and human nature.
What do Songs of Experience describe?
The mood and tone darkens compared to Songs of Innocence.
The poem describes the bitter corruptions and disillusionment that awaits the innocent.
Was Blake a first generation Romantic poet?
Yes, he lived during the late 1700s and early 1800s.
