Augustan vs. Victorian

Attribute	Augustan	Victorian
Time Period	18th century	19th century
Artistic Style	Neoclassical	Romanticism
Literary Movement	Augustan poetry	Victorian literature
Political Climate	Stability and order	Industrialization and social change
Key Figures	Jonathan Swift, Alexander Pope	Charles Dickens, Charlotte Bronte

Historical Context

The Augustan era, also known as the Age of Enlightenment, took place during the 18th century in England. It was a time of intellectual and cultural growth, with a focus on reason, order, and harmony. On the other hand, the Victorian era occurred during the 19th century and was characterized by rapid industrialization, social reform, and a strict moral code.

Literary Style

Augustan literature was marked by its emphasis on clarity, restraint, and wit. Writers such as Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift used satire to criticize society and politics. In contrast, Victorian literature was more sentimental and moralistic, with authors like Charles Dickens and the Bronte sisters exploring themes of social injustice and the struggles of the working class.

Art and Architecture

Augustan art and architecture were inspired by classical Greek and Roman styles, with a focus on symmetry and proportion. Buildings like St. Paul's Cathedral in London exemplify this neoclassical aesthetic. Victorian art and architecture, on the other hand, embraced a more ornate and elaborate style, with intricate details and embellishments. The Houses of Parliament in London are a prime example of Victorian Gothic architecture.

Science and Technology

The Augustan era saw significant advancements in science and technology, with figures like Isaac Newton making groundbreaking discoveries in physics and mathematics. The Victorian era, however, was a time of even greater innovation, with the invention of the steam engine, telegraph, and photography revolutionizing industry and communication.

Social Values

Augustan society placed a high value on reason, education, and social order. The aristocracy held power, and there was a strong emphasis on decorum and etiquette. In contrast, Victorian society was more focused on morality, family values, and social reform. The middle class grew in influence, and philanthropy became a popular way for the wealthy to give back to society.

Gender Roles

In the Augustan era, women were expected to be modest, obedient, and focused on domestic duties. They had limited rights and opportunities for education or employment. The Victorian era saw some progress in women's rights, with the rise of the suffrage movement and the push for greater equality. However, women still faced many restrictions and were largely confined to the domestic sphere.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Augustan and Victorian eras were distinct periods in English history, each with its own unique attributes and characteristics. While the Augustan era was marked by reason, order, and classical influences, the Victorian era was defined by industrialization, social reform, and moral values. Both periods left a lasting impact on literature, art, science, and society, shaping the cultural landscape of England for generations to come.