The Cavalier Poets: Celebrating Monarchy and Aesthetics in 17th-Century England

The Cavalier Poets and Their Influence on Royalist Ideals

The Cavalier poets, a group of early to mid-17th-century English poets, were ardent supporters of the monarchy during the English Civil War and the Restoration period. Notable figures such as Sir John Suckling, Thomas Carew, Richard Lovelace, and Robert Herrick are central to this group. Their poetry often reflected the courtly and aristocratic lifestyle, emphasizing themes of chivalry, loyalty to the crown, and a hedonistic enjoyment of life. The term 'Cavalier' was initially used derisively by their opponents, the Parliamentarians, to denote the royalists' perceived flamboyance and nonchalance, but it was later adopted by the poets themselves as a badge of honor.

The Contentious Reign of King Charles I

King Charles I's reign was fraught with disputes with Parliament over authority and governance, leading to the English Civil War. His belief in the divine right of kings and his subsequent actions, such as ruling without Parliament for over a decade, exacerbated the conflict. The forced reconvening of Parliament, due to financial pressures from military campaigns, resulted in the Triennial Act, which limited the king's power to dissolve Parliament. These events set the stage for the Civil War, which ended with the defeat of the royalists, the execution of Charles I, and the establishment of the Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell.

Defining Features of Cavalier Poetry

Cavalier poetry is characterized by its clear, unembellished style and avoidance of deep existential musings. The poets celebrated camaraderie, the natural world, and the pursuit of pleasure, often through the use of classical and biblical references that appealed to the educated elite of the time. Their works served to honor the monarchy and its values, particularly during the decline of the royalist cause, and they often employed a carpe diem (seize the day) philosophy, urging readers to enjoy life despite the political turmoil.

Stylistic Influences on the Cavalier Poets

The Cavalier poets drew inspiration from Ben Jonson, a leading figure of the Elizabethan stage, and were sometimes collectively referred to as the 'Sons of Ben.' Their poetry was informed by their connections to the royal court, and many had personal relationships with King Charles I. While not all poets associated with the Cavalier movement were courtiers—Robert Herrick being a notable example—their shared stylistic traits included a preference for simplicity and directness, setting them apart from the more complex verse forms popular at the time.

Cavalier and Metaphysical Poets: A Comparative Study

The Metaphysical poets, contemporaries of the Cavaliers, included John Donne, Andrew Marvell, George Herbert, and Henry Vaughan. Known for their intricate conceits and exploration of complex themes, the Metaphysical poets often delved into religious and philosophical subjects. In contrast, Cavalier poetry was more secular and accessible, emphasizing aesthetic pleasure and the art of living gracefully. While the two movements are distinct, it is important to recognize the fluidity of 17th-century poetry, with some poets, such as Thomas Carew, blending elements of both Cavalier and Metaphysical styles.

The Enduring Legacy of the Cavalier Poets

The Cavalier poets have made a lasting contribution to the English literary tradition, with their works remaining influential and widely read. Poems like 'Why so pale and wan, fond lover?' by Sir John Suckling, 'To Althea, from Prison' by Richard Lovelace, and 'A Rapture' by Thomas Carew are celebrated for their embodiment of the Cavalier aesthetic and their reflection of the historical context in which they were written. Their legacy is not only in the beauty of their verse but also in their ability to encapsulate the cultural and political milieu of their era.