Metaphysical Poetry: Metaphysical poetry, which reached its peak during the seventeenth century, is marked by the use of elaborate figurative languages, original conceits, paradoxes, and philosophical topics1. It is known for its complex and original conceits1. The term “metaphysical” was used by writers such as John Dryden and Samuel Johnson in regards to the poets of the seventeenth century1. These poets are noted for their “unnaturalness”1. The best known of the metaphysical poets is John Donne, followed by others such as Henry Vaughan, Andrew Marvell, and George Herbert1.
Comparison of Sonnets:
Cavalier Poetry: Cavalier poetry is generally marked by unaffected language, celebration of social and material pleasures and individual freedom, and support for the royalist cause in the English Civil War5. It contrasts with the more meditative and morally complex work of the metaphysical poets5. The Cavalier poets were a group of poets in 17th-century England who allied themselves with the cause of King Charles I and the aristocracy against Parliament5. Some of the main figures of the movement were Robert Herrick, Richard Lovelace, Sir John Suckling, and Thomas Carew5.