An Analysis of A Satire against Reason and
- Slides: 8
An Analysis of “A Satire against Reason and Mankind” By Elena Farnsworth and Seth Carter
John Wilmot, Second Earl of Rochester Born: 1 April 1647 Died: 26 July 1680 at age 33 Probably from syphilis Known for Precociousness Satiric wit Rakish lifestyle Hedonistic and Libertine Ideals
Thesis Rochester wrote the “Satire” to demonstrate the superiority of the libertine as an individual and the flaws of “wrong” reasoning of his society.
Hedonists and Libertines Hedonism The doctrine that pleasure or happiness is the sole or chief good in life Libertinism The quality or state of being a person who is unrestrained by convention or morality Rochester was known as a notable adherent to this philosophy
Libertinism and Hedonism in Classic Literature What are some other examples of Libertinism or Hedonism in literature?
Discussion Who is the “I” in this poem? Rochester? An individual libertine? Libertines in general? “Thus, whilst against false reasoning I inveigh, I own right reason, which I would obey. ” “Your reason hinders, mine helps to enjoy, renewing appetites yours would destroy. ” “This plain distinction, Sir, your doubt secures, ‘Tis not true reason I despise, but yours”
Discussion (continued) According to Rochester, why are instincts more exalted than reason? “Reason, which fifty times for one does err. ” “His wisdom did his happiness destroy, Aiming to know that world he should enjoy; and wit was his vain frivolous pretence of pleasing others at his own expense. ” “Those creatures are the wisest who attain by surest means, the ends at which they aim. ” Vs.
Discussion (continued) What were some complaints Rochester had against mankind? “The senses are too gross, and he’ll contrive a sixth to contradict the other five. ” “Thus I think reason righted, but for man, I’ll ne’er recant, defend him if you can. ” “Leading a tedious life in misery under laborious mean hypocrisy. ” “That lust of power to which he’s such a slave, and for the which alone he dares be brave. ” What do you think this last couplet means? “If such there be, yet grant me this at least, man differs more from man, than man from beast. ”
