The study of Poetry by Mathew Arnold

Matthew Arnold's essay "The Study of Poetry " serves as a cornerstone of Victorian literary criticism. Published in 1880 as the introduction to his anthology of English poetry, Arnold emphasizes the elevated role of poetry in modern life. He argues that poetry should replace religion and philosophy as a moral and emotional guide, offering what he describes as a 'criticism of life.' This article delves into Arnold's perspectives, the methods he advocates for evaluating poetry, and his appraisal of notable poets from Chaucer to Burns.

The Importance of Poetry

Arnold begins by proclaiming the immense future of poetry. He envisions it as a vital spiritual force, especially in an era where religion and philosophy struggle to provide moral clarity. Poetry, he contends, must reach 'a higher order of excellence' to fulfill its role as humanity's ultimate source of solace and guidance. He argues that poetry's value lies in its ability to offer profound truths and beauty, which can inspire and sustain readers.

The Touchstone Method in The study of Poetry

Arnold introduces the 'touchstone method' as a way to evaluate the quality of poetry. This method involves comparing a work with passages from established classics by authors like Homer, Dante, and Shakespeare. Arnold believes that great poetry is marked by its truth, high seriousness, and superior diction. These qualities, he argues, are evident in classic works and serve as benchmarks for evaluating other poems.

Fallacies in Criticism

Arnold warns readers against two common fallacies in literary criticism: the historical and the personal estimate. The historical estimate inflates a work's value based on its historical significance rather than its intrinsic literary quality. The personal estimate, on the other hand, skews judgment due to personal preferences or biases. Arnold advocates for a 'real estimate' that focuses solely on a poem's merit as a work of art.

Mathew Arnold's Analysis of Poets

Arnold critiques several poets in his essay, evaluating their works based on his principles. He praises Chaucer for his vivid portrayal of human life but argues that Chaucer lacks the 'high seriousness' required of a true classic. Similarly, Arnold acknowledges the poetic skill of Robert Burns but notes that Burns' work also falls short of classic status due to its lack of elevated seriousness.

In contrast, Arnold considers Milton and Shakespeare to be definitive classics. He highlights their mastery of language, profound subject matter, and enduring relevance. Dryden and Pope, while celebrated figures of their time, are regarded by Arnold as great prose writers rather than great poets.

Poetry as a Criticism of Life

Central to Arnold's argument is his belief that poetry serves as a 'criticism of life.' By this, he means that poetry provides insights into human existence and morality through its exploration of truth and beauty. For Arnold, the value of poetry is not merely aesthetic but also ethical and intellectual.

Legacy and Relevance

Arnold's essay remains a foundational text in literary criticism. His insistence on high standards and his emphasis on poetry's moral and spiritual functions continue to influence the way literature is studied and appreciated. While some of his ideas, such as the touchstone method, have been criticized for their subjectivity, they have also sparked ongoing debates about the criteria for literary excellence.

Conclusion

"The Study of Poetry" by Matthew Arnold is a profound exploration of the purpose and evaluation of poetry. Through his touchstone method, his critique of literary fallacies, and his appraisal of individual poets, Arnold offers a compelling vision of poetry as a timeless source of truth and beauty. His essay challenges readers and critics alike to approach poetry with both discernment and reverence.