IJFANS International Journal of Food and Nutritional Sciences

ISSN PRINT 2319 1775 Online 2320-7876

ALEXANDER POPE'S VIEWS ON RELIGION AND MORALITY IN HIS WORKS

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Banashankari

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to explore the Alexander Pope's Views on Religion and Morality in his Works. Alexander Pope's exploration of religion and morality in his works reflects the intellectual and cultural milieu of the 18th-century Enlightenment, characterized by a profound emphasis on reason, natural law, and skepticism towards religious dogma. A Catholic in Protestant England, Pope's religious perspective was inherently shaped by his outsider status, prompting a nuanced approach to faith and ethics. In "Essay on Man" (1733-34), Pope articulates a Deistic view of the universe, presenting God as a rational creator who designed a harmonious and orderly world governed by natural laws. This poem underscores the idea that human beings, limited in their understanding, must accept their place within this grand design, trusting in a benevolent divine providence despite the presence of evil and suffering. Pope's optimism about the rational order of the universe is influenced by the contemporary advancements in Newtonian science, which reinforced the belief in a predictable and mechanistic cosmos. Pope’s critique of religious extremism and fanaticism is vividly portrayed in his satirical works, such as "The Dunciad" (1728). Through biting humor and sharp critique, he exposes the hypocrisy and moral pretentiousness of religious figures, advocating for a more reasoned and tolerant approach to faith. His satire serves as a moral corrective, challenging societal norms and individual vices. Furthermore, Pope's emphasis on morality and virtue is evident in "Essay on Criticism" (1709), where he links ethical behavior to artistic excellence, suggesting that true artistry stems from moral integrity and sound judgment. By combining ethical reflection with literary critique, Pope underscores the interdependence of virtue and creativity. Pope's works, through their engagement with religion and morality, offer a rich tapestry of Enlightenment thought, advocating for a balanced, rational approach to understanding human existence and ethical conduct. His legacy continues to resonate, offering timeless insights into the moral and philosophical questions that shape human life.

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