Which literary period is characterized by the writing style produced during the reigns of Queen Anne and King George I?

The Augustan Age is characterized by the literary output during the reigns of Queen Anne and King George I, roughly from the late 17th century to the early 18th century. This period is notable for its emphasis on reason, order, and decorum, mirroring the political stability and the rise of the middle class in England at the time. Writers of the Augustan Age often sought to emulate the classical authors of Rome, focusing on themes such as human nature and societal issues, resulting in a style that embraced satire, poetry, and prose that highlighted wit and reflective thought.

The influence of classical models and the pursuit of literary refinement were hallmarks of this era, as seen in the works of key figures such as Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift. Their contributions helped to establish standards of literary excellence that valued clarity, structure, and moral purpose in writing, which are foundational elements of the Augustan literary tradition.