“玄学巧智”:塞缪尔·约翰逊与玄学派经典化历史

Metaphysical Wit:Samuel Johnson and the Canonization of the Metaphysical Poets

约翰逊是玄学派经典化历史上起到重要的双向作用的批评家。从17世纪到18世纪中后期,玄学派的文学地位经历了由鼎盛到衰微的过程。约翰逊的《考利传》首次围绕"巧智"概念较系统地阐述了以考利和多恩为代表的玄学派诗人的才华属性和创作得失:他既批判了玄学派诗歌耽于卖弄学问,难以摹仿人世风俗、触动普通人情感的缺憾,又肯定了"玄学巧智"所蕴含的思想能量和创新潜能。约翰逊的评判成为后世包括T.S.艾略特在内试图恢复玄学派经典地位的批评家所必须面对的权威。

Samuel Johnson played both promoting and suppressive roles in the canonization of the'metaphysical poets'. From the 17 th century to the latter half of the 18 th century,the Metaphysical School gradually declined in reputation and influence. In 'The Life of Cowley ',by focusing on the concept of 'wit ',Samuel Johnson assessed the achievement of this group of poets,as well as their literary genius. He criticized their indulgence in book learning and failure to represent human passions,and meanwhile affirmed the intellectual energy of their poetry. Johnson's criticism imposed a burden on and provided a solution for those critics,including T. S. Eliot,who later attempted to restore the canonical status of the metaphysical poets.