Classic and Contemporary Poets

William Cartwright was an English dramatist, poet, and churchman born in September 1611 in Northway, Gloucestershire. Cartwright was a contemporary of other famed poets such as Ben Jonson and George Herbert and was highly regarded by his peers for his literary works, although his reputation has not endured as theirs has into the modern era.

Literary Background

Cartwright lived during the English Renaissance, a period that produced some of the greatest literature in the English language, including the works of Shakespeare and the metaphysical poets. This was an era where drama and poetry flourished and the theater was a central cultural force in England.

Early Influences

William Cartwright was educated at Westminster School and later at the University of Oxford. His writings were significantly influenced by the work of Ben Jonson, and he was often compared favorably to Jonson by his contemporaries. His works also display the wit and metaphysical conceits common among the poets of the early 17th century, such as John Donne.

Poetic Schools or Movements

Cartwright was not associated with any formal school or movement of poetry. However, his works bear the hallmarks of the metaphysical poets, characterized by their intricate conceits and philosophical musings on love, religion, and morality.

Poetic Oeuvre: Phases and Themes

Cartwright's career was not long due to his untimely death at the age of 32, but his output was prolific. His poetry is notable for its intellectualism and wit, and it often explores themes of love, loyalty, and the human condition. His most famous collection of poetry and plays is "Comedies, Tragi-Comedies, With Other Poems," published posthumously in 1651 by a group of admirers who praised him as one of the most brilliant minds of his time.

Cartwright's work as a dramatist also reflected his poetic talents. His plays, which include "The Royal Slave" and "The Lady Errant," were popular during his lifetime, and he was admired for his ability to blend poetic language with dramatic plot structures.

Influence

Though not as widely remembered today as some of his contemporaries, Cartwright was highly esteemed by his peers. The aforementioned collection of his works included commendatory verses by over thirty writers of the time, which is a testament to his impact on his contemporaries.

Honors

During his life, Cartwright was appreciated for his literary talents and his potential was recognized by many. He was appointed as reader in metaphysics at Oxford and was made a junior proctor. His early death was mourned by many who saw him as one of the brightest literary talents of his generation.

Conclusion

William Cartwright's poetry and drama are indicative of the rich intellectual and artistic environment of early 17th-century England. His work is emblematic of the metaphysical style, characterized by its wit, learned references, and exploration of complex philosophical ideas. Despite a career cut short, Cartwright left behind a body of work that earned the respect and admiration of his peers and provides insight into the literary culture of his time. His contributions to English literature reflect the dynamism and innovation of the Renaissance, underlining the era's ongoing influence on the arts and letters.

Copyright (c) 2024 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...