Byron context Flashcards
What generation poet was Byron?
Second generation.
What is the Byronic hero?
Created by Byron
They are often arrogant, intelligent, sexually liberated and brooding.
Why was Byron’s personal life scandalous?
He had several sexual affairs, including one with his half-sister which caused controversy.
Why did Byron leave England and where did he go?
He left England in 1816 due to the increasing scandal of his personal life and travelled to Greece.
He became involved in the Greek war and aimed to create a legacy as a hero in the war.
What was Byron often known for being?
A good looking man who often attributed traits of hedonism as a result.
What were Byron’s main views on the state on life and the state of the social sphere?
He saw society as morally corrupt, hypocritical, and oppressive, and he used his poetry to critique the political, religious, and social structures that upheld this corruption.
He emphasized expression of strong emotion and imagination.
What did Byron’s father do in his life that may have influenced his views?
HIs father married two women and misused them for money.
What were Byron’s views on death and the afterlife?
Byron was highly skeptical of traditional Christian views of the afterlife, particularly the ideas of eternal reward or punishment.
What were Byron’s views on religion?
He was highly skeptical towards organized religion, specifically Christianity.
He believed this controlled and manipulated people rather than promoting genuine spirituality.
What was the main theme of Byron’s poerty?
Focus on existentialism, human emotion, death and suffering.
