Edmund Burke vs. Longinus

Attribute	Edmund Burke	Longinus
Time Period	18th century	1st century AD
Field of Study	Political philosophy	Literary criticism
Key Works	Reflections on the Revolution in France	On the Sublime
Views on Society	Emphasized tradition and gradual change	Emphasized the power of language and rhetoric

Background

Edmund Burke and Longinus were both influential figures in the realm of literature and philosophy, albeit in different time periods. Burke, an Irish statesman and philosopher, lived in the 18th century and is known for his conservative political views and his defense of tradition and gradual change. Longinus, on the other hand, was a Greek literary critic who lived in the 3rd century AD and is best known for his work "On the Sublime," which explores the nature of greatness in writing.

Philosophical Views

One key difference between Burke and Longinus is their philosophical outlook. Burke was a proponent of conservatism and believed in the importance of tradition and gradual change. He argued that society should be guided by the wisdom of past generations and that sudden, radical changes could lead to chaos and destruction. Longinus, on the other hand, focused on the concept of the sublime in literature and believed that great writing should evoke powerful emotions and transcend the ordinary. He emphasized the importance of passion and inspiration in literary works.

Writing Style

While both Burke and Longinus were skilled writers and thinkers, they had different styles when it came to expressing their ideas. Burke was known for his eloquent prose and persuasive arguments, often using vivid imagery and rhetorical devices to make his points. His writing was characterized by its clarity and forcefulness, making it accessible to a wide audience. Longinus, on the other hand, was more focused on analyzing the works of others rather than expressing his own opinions. His writing style was more scholarly and analytical, delving deep into the nuances of literary greatness.

Legacy

Despite their differences, both Burke and Longinus left a lasting impact on their respective fields. Burke's ideas on conservatism and the importance of tradition continue to influence political thought to this day, particularly in conservative circles. His writings on aesthetics and the sublime have also had a lasting impact on literary criticism. Longinus, on the other hand, is best known for his work "On the Sublime," which has been studied and admired for centuries. His ideas on greatness in writing have influenced countless writers and critics throughout history.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Edmund Burke and Longinus may have had different philosophical views and writing styles, they both made significant contributions to their respective fields. Burke's emphasis on tradition and gradual change and Longinus's focus on the sublime in literature have both left a lasting impact on the world of ideas. By studying and comparing the attributes of these two influential figures, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of human thought and creativity.