Reason and Common Sense

Augustan Age The Rise of Journalism

The Rise of Journalism Interest of the Middle Class in: – Literature – Art – Social problems – Political life

Desire of the Middle Class: – To be informed – To discuss events, famous people

The Periodicals Joseph Addison (“The Spectator”) Richard Steele (“The Tatler”) Subjects of general interests: – – – –

Fashion Literature Manners History

Aim: – Moral Teachings and Entertainment

The Tatler • 3 times a week • 1711 • Casual and conversational style

The Spectator • Daily (no on Sundays) 1711-1712 • Mr Spectator  imaginary club • Comments upon: – customs and morals – virtues and vices

• Different social classes • Clear and simple style • Imitation outside England (“Il Caffè” – Verri)

http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Spectator

Other Periodicals Novelists  careers as journalists Jonathan Swift “The Examiner” (whig ministers) Daniel Defoe “The Review” (home & foreign policy)