Question

What was one of Wordsworth’s main critiques of 18th-century poetry?

• A. It was too focused on rural life
• B. It relied too much on simple and unrefined language
• C. It used artificial, elevated diction
• D. It lacked structure and poetic devices

Answer 1

Answer:

C. It used artificial, elevated diction

One of William Wordsworth’s main critiques of 18th-century Neoclassical poetry was that it relied too much on artificial, elevated language rather than the natural speech of common people.

Wordsworth’s Criticism of 18th-Century Poetry:

• It used ornate, complex language that was far from everyday speech.

• It focused more on intellectual wit and formality rather than genuine emotions.

• It followed rigid poetic structures instead of allowing spontaneity and personal expression.

In contrast, Wordsworth believed poetry should use simple, natural language and express authentic human emotions, making poetry more accessible and heartfelt—a key principle of Romanticism.