Romantics Blake Flashcards
What was Blake?
a poet, visionary, painter
Why did Blake create his work - what was his purpose?
He worked to bring about a change in both social orders and the minds of men
What did Gilchrist say about Blakes writing, and who it was aimed for?
“for the children and angels; himself a divine child”
When was Blakes era
1757 - 1827
What did Blake believe his writings were?
of national importance
Where did Blake work and live - and how did it influence his work?
Worked and lived in london, at a time of great social and political change that profoundly influenced writers
What was Blake said to be (you never remember the word)?
One of the great progenitors of English Romanticism, his artwork is highly regarded around the world
Where are “the Tyger” and “london” lyrics from
The Milton
What did Blake focus his poetry on and what wave?
As a first wave Romantic poet, Blake focused his poetry on the religious sublime and “the spontaneous overflow of powerful feeling”
What was Blakes writing described as?
exquisite lyrics
What was Blakes sublime?
Highest form of artistic expression. Being sublime is the essence of expression in an elevated way
What was Blake’s relationship with his youngest brother, Robert?
Blake had a close bond with his youngest brother, Robert, who died young.
Who was Blake married to and what was their marriage like?
The marriage was a successful one, though they did not have children.
How did Blake feel about his brother Robert’s influence on his work?
Blake believed his brother’s spirit guided him in creating his illuminated printing method to illustrate his poems.
What was Blake’s view on the role of poetry and poets?
Blake believed poetry should delight and instruct, with poets acting as personal visionaries and channels for ancient wisdom.
How did Blake critique conventional religion in his works?
Blake’s works critiqued organised religion and its control over people’s perceptions of the divine.
How did the execution of King Louis XVI and the war between England and France influence Blake’s work?
The execution of King Louis XVI and the subsequent war became central to Blake’s critique of repression and the oppressive powers of state and religion.
What were Blake’s beliefs regarding Christianity?
Blake maintained a belief in Jesus, a Christian God, and the possibility of spiritual redemption.
What did Blake strongly oppose about orthodox Christianity?
Blake strongly opposed orthodox Christianity, particularly for suppressing natural desires and discouraging earthly joy.
How does Blake’s poetry reflect his views on the French Revolution?
Blake’s poetry symbolically recounts the effects of the French Revolution, reflecting his disillusionment with it.
How did Blake’s work influence future movements?
Blake’s work laid the foundation for future artistic and literary movements, critiquing conventional notions of religion, politics, and society.
How does Blake’s exploration of themes like innocence and experience continue to impact modern thought?
Blake’s exploration of innocence, experience, revolution, and spirituality continues to inspire contemporary interpretations of art, literature, and philosophy.
How was Blake’s work viewed during his lifetime, and how is it regarded today?
During his lifetime, Blake’s work was largely neglected or dismissed, but he is now considered one of the leading lights of English poetry.
