The Age of Metaphysical and Cavalier Poets, spanning the late 16th and early 17th centuries, represents a significant period in English literary history characterized by distinct poetic movements and styles.


1. Metaphysical Poets:

   - The term "Metaphysical Poets" was coined by Samuel Johnson to describe a group of 17th-century poets who shared certain stylistic and thematic features.

   - These poets, including John Donne, George Herbert, Andrew Marvell, and others, were known for their intellectual complexity, unconventional metaphors, and exploration of philosophical and religious themes.

   - Metaphysical poetry often employs elaborate conceits, or extended metaphors, to explore the nature of love, faith, mortality, and the human condition.

   - John Donne, often considered the quintessential Metaphysical poet, is known for his intricate verse, blending passionate emotion with rational argumentation. His poems, such as "The Flea" and "A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning," exemplify the wit and metaphysical conceits characteristic of this poetic style.



2. Cavalier Poets:

   - The Cavalier Poets were a group of 17th-century poets who were generally associated with the Royalist cause during the English Civil War.

   - These poets, including Robert Herrick, Thomas Carew, and Richard Lovelace, were known for their elegant, lyrical verse, celebrating the pleasures of love, beauty, and sensuality.

   - Cavalier poetry often emphasizes themes of courtship, carpe diem ("seize the day"), and a carefree enjoyment of life.

   - Robert Herrick's collection "Hesperides" is a notable example of Cavalier poetry, featuring poems that celebrate nature, love, and the passage of time.


3. Differences and Similarities:

   - While Metaphysical and Cavalier poets emerged around the same time and shared some common literary influences, they differed in their stylistic approaches and thematic concerns.

   - Metaphysical poetry tends to be characterized by its intellectual complexity, use of conceits, and exploration of abstract concepts, while Cavalier poetry is often characterized by its simplicity, elegance, and celebration of earthly pleasures.

   - Despite these differences, both movements contributed to the richness and diversity of English poetry during the 17th century and left a lasting impact on subsequent generations of poets.



In summary, the Age of Metaphysical and Cavalier Poets represents a dynamic period in English literature marked by contrasting poetic styles and thematic concerns. While Metaphysical poets engaged in philosophical inquiry and intellectual exploration, Cavalier poets celebrated the beauty of the natural world and the joys of human experience, collectively enriching the literary landscape of their time.