Pictures and Poetry. Debunking the Bunk: An Examination of Picturesque Influence
This thesis examines the history and development of the Picturesque, its definition, theoreticians, and practitioners; and its influence on romanticism. The focus is the correction of pejorative and negative assessments common in modern literary studies which provide a misleading interpretation of both the Picturesque and its influence. The goal is a broader understanding which suggests the necessity of a new evaluation of Wordsworth’s “groundbreaking” contribution to literary development. Accordingly, an extensive introductory section examines pre-Picturesque and Picturesque painting, outlining the beginnings of a new and particularly English aesthetic. Also, an exploration of pre-Picturesque poetry and formative Picturesque poetry reveals the literary ramifications of this aesthetic. Finally, Wordsworth and Keats are canvassed within the Picturesque context: Wordsworth to demonstrate the origins and erroneousness of the modern critical bias and the way his poetry was often formulated according to Picturesque principles; Keats to demonstrate the longevity and continuing importance and influence of the Picturesque. Conclusions are conclusive.
2. There are a few endless debates in the strange land of English Literature. One of the great ones (great in the smallest sense) is the correct reading of Book IV. You will be happy to hear, though perhaps less happy to read, that I hve finally closed this discourse once and forever.
3. This was done in my first year at Concordia University. On reading it, I was surprised to see that my custom of using footnotes as friendly asides to friendly teachers was already started.
4.This one has some great footnotes!
5. Barely history. Actually, most of my history papers were barely history. Let's face it, history's going nowhere. And who knows where it's been.
6.This is very old stuff. Pre university. The interesting thing for me, besides it being not too bad, is that already I seemed to know how to and why to talk the talk.
7.This is a dandy piece. Very entertaining. Take a look-see.