What were the main features of Restoration literature?

Restoration literature featured wit, satire, and a focus on social and political themes, often with a sense of realism.

Restoration literature, which emerged after the return of Charles II to the English throne in 1660, is known for its sharp wit and clever satire. Writers of this period often used humour and irony to critique society and politics. This was a time of great change and upheaval, and literature reflected the complexities and contradictions of the age. Playwrights like William Congreve and poets like John Dryden were masters of this style, using their works to comment on the manners and morals of the time.

One of the most notable features of Restoration literature is its focus on social and political themes. The period was marked by significant events such as the Great Plague, the Great Fire of London, and the ongoing conflicts between the monarchy and Parliament. These events provided rich material for writers, who often explored the tensions and dynamics of power in their works. For example, John Dryden's "Absalom and Achitophel" is a political allegory that critiques the political situation of the time.

Realism also became an important aspect of Restoration literature. Unlike the more fantastical elements of earlier periods, Restoration writers aimed to depict life more accurately and honestly. This can be seen in the detailed characterisations and complex plots of Restoration comedies, which often revolved around the intrigues and scandals of high society. Aphra Behn, one of the first professional female writers, is known for her realistic portrayals of both the upper and lower classes in her plays and novels.

In summary, Restoration literature is characterised by its wit, satire, and focus on social and political themes, all delivered with a sense of realism that aimed to reflect the true nature of the world at the time.