Integrating Poetry into Your 18th Century Literature Lessons

Discover how to bring the rich world of 18th-century poetry into your literature lessons! This guide offers practical examples and activities that will engage your students and deepen their understanding of the era's literary landscape.
By Taylor

Why Incorporate Poetry?

Incorporating poetry into your 18th-century literature lessons can enhance students’ understanding of the period’s themes, styles, and social contexts. Poetry serves as a window into the emotions and experiences of the time, making it a valuable addition to any curriculum.

Example 1: Thematic Comparisons

Objective: Compare themes in poetry and prose.

  1. Select a Poem: Choose a poem by an 18th-century poet, such as Alexander Pope’s “The Rape of the Lock.”
  2. Read and Analyze: Have students read the poem and identify its themes, such as social satire and the frivolity of high society.
  3. Pair with Prose: Introduce a prose work from the same period, like Jonathan Swift’s “A Modest Proposal.”
  4. Discussion: Facilitate a discussion on how both pieces comment on society, exploring similarities and differences in tone and style. This exercise encourages critical thinking and helps students see the interconnectedness of different literary forms.

Example 2: Creative Writing Exercise

Objective: Encourage students to express their understanding of 18th-century themes through poetry.

  1. Choose a Theme: Assign a common theme from the 18th century, such as nature, politics, or love.
  2. Study a Poem: Read a poem that exemplifies that theme, such as William Wordsworth’s “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud.”
  3. Writing Prompt: Ask students to write their own poem reflecting on the chosen theme, using inspiration from the style of the era.
  4. Share and Reflect: Create a space for students to share their poems with the class. This can foster a sense of community and allow them to appreciate each other’s creativity while reinforcing their learning.

Example 3: Poetry Presentations

Objective: Develop students’ presentation and analytical skills.

  1. Group Assignment: Divide students into small groups, assigning each a different poet from the 18th century, such as John Keats or Emily Dickinson.
  2. Research: Each group researches their assigned poet’s background, significant works, and the historical context of their poetry.
  3. Presentation: Groups prepare a short presentation that includes a reading of one of the poet’s works along with their analysis of its themes and style.
  4. Class Discussion: After each presentation, facilitate a class discussion to compare the poets and their contributions to 18th-century literature.

Conclusion

Incorporating poetry into 18th-century literature lessons can make the learning experience richer and more engaging. By using thematic comparisons, creative writing exercises, and presentations, you provide students with a deeper understanding of the literature while fostering their appreciation for the art of poetry. Happy teaching!