John Donne- short summary

Key Terms: Main points: Significant quotes:
Hyperbole- a far-reaching exaggeration

Metaphysical- coined by Jon Dryden : poets sought to explain abstract concepts in order to make sense of the world.

Conceit- A form of extended metaphor. A scholarly comparison between two things.

Syllogism- A form of cyclic reasoning used in philosophy.

Sonnet- lyric poetry with a 14-line structure.

Paradox- A statement which initially seems absurd but on closer examination proves to be true and logical.

Critical response:
Ben Johnson criticised Donne’s work
for being ‘over intellectual’.

Leishman claimed that Donne’s best work had a balance of intellect and passion.
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