Matthew Arnold – The Study of Poetry
The Study of Poetry (1880) is a landmark critical essay by Matthew Arnold, in which he defines the function, value, and evaluation of poetry. Arnold argues that poetry will replace religion and philosophy as the chief guide of human life in the modern age.
The essay lays the foundation of Arnold’s critical principles, especially his ideas of high seriousness and the touchstone method.
Background of the Essay
The essay appears as the Preface to Arnold’s collection Essays in Criticism: Second Series.
Arnold writes in a period marked by:
- decline of religious faith
- scientific rationalism
- moral uncertainty
He believes poetry must provide moral and spiritual support to humanity.
Central Argument
Arnold’s central claim is that:
- poetry is the highest form of truth
- poetry interprets life
- poetry offers consolation and guidance
“Poetry is a criticism of life.”
By this, Arnold means poetry interprets human experience according to moral truth and beauty.
The Future of Poetry
Arnold predicts that:
- religion will lose emotional power
- science will explain facts but not values
Therefore, poetry will:
- replace religion as moral guide
- replace philosophy as emotional support
Poetry will sustain humanity spiritually.
What Makes Great Poetry
Arnold insists that great poetry must combine:
- Truth – seriousness of subject
- Beauty – excellence of diction and form
He rejects poetry that is merely decorative or rhetorical.
High seriousness is the mark of great poetry.
The Touchstone Method
Arnold introduces the touchstone theory to judge poetry objectively.
According to this method:
- short passages from great poets are used as standards
- new poetry is compared with these passages
Examples of touchstone poets include:
- Homer
- Dante
- Shakespeare
- Milton
Only poetry that withstands this comparison is truly great.
Criticism of Historical and Personal Approaches
Arnold criticises judging poetry based on:
- historical importance
- biography of the poet
- personal preference
He insists that poetry must be judged by its intrinsic quality alone.
Role of the Critic
The critic’s duty is to:
- maintain high standards
- promote the best poetry
- educate public taste
Criticism must be disinterested and objective.
Major Themes
- Poetry as Moral Force
- High Seriousness
- Touchstone Method
- Objective Criticism
- Poetry vs Religion and Science
Style of Arnold’s Criticism
- clear and balanced prose
- didactic tone
- moral seriousness
- classical restraint
Arnold’s style reflects his belief in discipline and order.
Critical Appreciation
- The essay defines Victorian literary criticism.
- It elevates poetry to moral philosophy.
- The touchstone theory promotes objective standards.
- Arnold’s views shaped modern criticism.
Limitations of Arnold’s Theory
- overemphasis on moral seriousness
- neglect of imagination and emotion
- excludes experimental poetry
Despite limitations, the essay remains influential.
Significance of the Essay
- foundation of English literary criticism
- defines the function of poetry
- introduces objective evaluation
- bridges literature and ethics
Quick Revision Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Critic | Matthew Arnold |
| Essay | The Study of Poetry |
| Year | 1880 |
| Core Idea | Poetry as moral guide |
| Key Concept | Touchstone method |
| Quality of Great Poetry | High seriousness |
| Critical Approach | Objective, moral |
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