Robert Herrick belonged to the Caroline Age.
Understanding the Caroline Age
The Caroline Age is a distinct period in English history and literature, named after King Charles I (from the Latin Carolus for Charles). It encompasses his reign and is characterized by unique cultural, political, and literary developments that shaped the works of writers like Robert Herrick.
Key Aspects of the Caroline Age
- Period: The Caroline Age spanned from 1625 to 1649. This timeframe immediately preceded the tumultuous English Civil War and the subsequent Interregnum.
- Monarch: The era is defined by the rule of King Charles I, who reigned from his ascension in 1625 until his execution in 1649, marking a pivotal moment in English history.
- Literary Movements:
- Cavalier Poets: Robert Herrick was a prominent figure among the Cavalier Poets. This group, including others like Richard Lovelace and Sir John Suckling, were Royalist supporters of King Charles I. Their poetry often celebrated themes of love, loyalty, beauty, and the carpe diem (seize the day) philosophy.
- Metaphysical Poets: While many of the key Metaphysical poets had established their style earlier, figures such as George Herbert and Henry Vaughan continued to write during this period, producing complex, intellectually rich verse.
- Political Context: The age was marked by escalating tensions between the Crown and Parliament, ultimately leading to the English Civil War (1642-1651). This political unrest deeply influenced the literary output and themes of the time.
Robert Herrick's Significance in the Caroline Age
As a leading Cavalier Poet, Robert Herrick's work perfectly encapsulates the spirit and literary style of the Caroline Age. His lyrical poems, famously collected in Hesperides, showcase the Royalist sensibility, an appreciation for ephemeral beauty, and the recurrent carpe diem motif that was central to Cavalier poetry. His verse often reflects the refined, elegant, and sometimes melancholic mood prevalent among the king's supporters during a period of growing political instability.
For more information on this historical and literary period, you can explore the Caroline Age on Wikipedia.
