Question

What is the Touchstone Method?

• A. A way to memorize poetry
• B. A method of comparing poetry with lines from the greatest poets
• C. A system for writing poetry
• D. A technique for analyzing poetic rhyme schemes

Answer 1

Answer:

B. A method of comparing poetry with lines from the greatest poets

The Touchstone Method is a method of comparing poetry with lines from the greatest poets to determine its true literary value.

Matthew Arnold introduced this concept in The Study of Poetry (1880), arguing that the best way to judge poetry objectively is to measure it against short, exemplary passages from the greatest poets, such as Homer, Dante, Shakespeare, and Milton. These "touchstone" lines serve as a benchmark of excellence, helping critics and readers assess whether a poem possesses high seriousness, emotional depth, and lasting artistic merit.

Arnold believed this method would help prevent subjective (Personal Estimate) and historical (Historic Estimate) biases, ensuring that only poetry of genuine quality is recognized and appreciated.