Which specific term did Samuel Johnson use to describe the school of poetry associated with Donne, characterized by 'wit' and unusual metaphors?
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Correct answer: The Metaphysical Poets
Samuel Johnson coined the term in his 'Life of Cowley' to describe a group of 17th-century poets. He critiqued them for yoking 'heterogeneous ideas... by violence together' through the use of complex conceits.
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More John Donne questions
- In 'The Flea', how does the speaker attempt to persuade his mistress to yield to his romantic advances?
- What is the primary theme of Donne's 'Holy Sonnet X' (Death, be not proud)?
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- Which phrase best describes the characteristic 'Metaphysical conceit'?