A comparative study of poetry in the Age of Enlightenment and the influence of globalization on contemporary poetry

Abstract

The Age of Enlightenment (17th–19th century) was a period of intellectual and philosophical awakening that significantly influenced literature, particularly poetry. Enlightenment poetry was characterized by themes of reason, individualism, and human rights, with poets such as Alexander Pope, Voltaire, and Friedrich Schiller using their works to critique societal norms and advocate rational thought. In the contemporary era, globalization has transformed poetry into a cross-cultural phenomenon, integrating diverse linguistic, thematic, and stylistic elements. This paper compares Enlightenment poetry with modern poetic expressions in the globalized world, examining how poetic discourse has evolved in response to changing socio-political landscapes and digital advancements. Key aspects explored include poetic themes, stylistic evolution, the role of cultural exchange, and the impact of digital platforms on poetry’s dissemination and reception. Through a comparative analysis enriched with real-time data, graphs, and literary statistics, this study illustrates how poetry has adapted to new mediums while maintaining its historical roots. Finally, the paper evaluates whether poetry today retains the philosophical depth of Enlightenment literature or has become more commercialized and audience-driven in the digital age.