Question

Which of the following is NOT a feature of Pre-Raphaelite poetry?

• A. Fascination with medieval romance and mystery
• B. Sensuousness and rich melody
• C. Didactic moral instruction
• D. Pictorial quality with attention to detail

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Didactic moral instruction

Pre-Raphaelite Poetry: Key Features and Distinctions

• The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, formed in 1848, sought to revive the spirit of art and literature before the Italian High Renaissance, particularly before the artist Raphael.
• Emphasis on Detail and Realism: Pre-Raphaelite poetry is characterized by its meticulous attention to natural details, vivid imagery, and a strong sense of realism, often depicting scenes from nature, medieval legends, and Shakespearean plays.
• Spiritual and Emotional Intensity: Unlike didactic poetry, which aims to teach a moral lesson, Pre-Raphaelite works often delve into complex emotional states, love, beauty, sin, and redemption, exploring the subjective experiences of individuals.
• Symbolism and Allegory: While not overtly moralistic, their poetry frequently employs rich symbolism and allegory to convey deeper meanings and spiritual insights.
• Influence of Medievalism and Romanticism: The movement drew inspiration from medieval romances, Arthurian legends, and the Romantic poets' focus on emotion, imagination, and the individual.
• Key Figures and Works: Prominent poets associated with the movement include Dante Gabriel Rossetti (e.g., The Blessed Damozel), Christina Rossetti (e.g., Goblin Market), and William Holman Hunt (though primarily a painter, his work influenced the literary aspect).
• Rejection of Academic Conventions: They reacted against the perceived artificiality and conventionalism of Victorian academic art and literature, striving for a more authentic and emotionally resonant expression.
• Didactic Moral Instruction NOT a Feature: A core characteristic of Pre-Raphaelite poetry is its departure from the overt moralizing or didactic purpose common in earlier Victorian poetry. Instead, they focused on exploring beauty, intense emotions, and complex themes through vivid, often melancholic, portrayals.