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Cover of Epistle to a Friend Concerning Poetry (1700) and the Essay on Heroic Poetry (second edition, 1697)

Epistle to a Friend Concerning Poetry (1700) and the Essay on Heroic Poetry (second edition, 1697)

Written by Samuel Wesley

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PoetryEpic poetry

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About this book

"Epistle to a Friend Concerning Poetry" by Samuel Wesley is an early 18th-century poetic treatise. The work serves as an earnest exploration of the principles of poetry, particularly focusing on the relationship between creativity, virtue, and the expectations of society. It represents Wesley's commitment to the intersection of art and morality, addressing themes of religious faith and the role of the poet in society. The opening of this work presents a preface that outlines Wesley's intentions and motivations for writing. He expresses a desire to engage with the current literary trends while emphasizing the importance of religion and virtue in poetry. Wesley addresses the reader directly, revealing a style that balances poetic expression with philosophical inquiry. He begins to unpack the concept of "Genius," describing it as the divine inspiration necessary for true poetic creation. Through this exploration, Wesley lays the groundwork for a discussion on the qualities that define effective poetry, the role of judgment, and the expectations of poets, inviting readers into a contemplative dialogue about the nature of poetic practice and its impact on society.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Epistle to a Friend Concerning Poetry (1700) and the Essay on Heroic Poetry (second edition, 1697), written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • scholarly
  • didactic
  • formal

Samuel Wesley's "Epistle to a Friend Concerning Poetry" and "Essay on Heroic Poetry" are seminal works of late 17th-century English literary criticism, offering a robust defense and detailed analysis of heroic or epic poetry. Wesley articulates a prescriptive view of poetry, emphasizing its moral utility, classical foundations, and the rigorous demands placed upon the poet. He delves into the structure, themes, and characteristics of the epic, drawing heavily on examples from Homer, Virgil, and Milton, while engaging with contemporary debates on the nature and purpose of verse. These essays provide invaluable insight into the neoclassical critical landscape, advocating for poetry as a vehicle for instruction and virtue, rather than mere entertainment.

“Poetry is an Art that teaches us to please, and pleases us to teach.”

Key themes

The Nature and Purpose of Heroic Poetry
This is the central theme, as Wesley dedicates the bulk of his 'Essay' to defining, dissecting, and defending heroic (epic) poetry. He explores its formal requirements, thematic scope, and its capacity to embody the highest forms of poetic art, emphasizing its potential for grandeur and moral elevation.
The Moral Function of Poetry
Wesley strongly advocates for poetry's role as a moral instructor and shaper of character. He believes that true poetry should not merely entertain but should actively promote virtue, condemn vice, and elevate the human spirit, making it a powerful tool for societal betterment.
Classical vs. Modern Poetics
Wesley's essays are situated within the broader 'Quarrel of the Ancients and Moderns' debate of his era. He largely champions the classical tradition, arguing for the enduring superiority and instructional value of ancient Greek and Roman models, while acknowledging the possibility of modern poets (like Milton) achieving similar heights through adherence to classical principles.

Worth discussing

How do Wesley's definitions of heroic poetry compare with modern understandings of epic literature?

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