THE INFLUENCE OF GEORGE HERBERT ON GERARD MANLEY HOPKINS

Abstract

<p>This study considers the extent of George Herbert's influence on Gerard Manley Hopkins' poetry; some attention is also given to the spiritual importance of the former poet to the latter. Herbert is often called Hopkins' favourite poet, and various echoes . of his poetry are identified by critics in Hopkins' poetry. Some of these do not necessarily originate with Herbert. Other possible sources, for instance their common commitment as Christians to the Bible, are therefore considered in order to underscore the complexities involved in establishing this influence. The true nature of originality in poetry is discussed in this context. The abundance of Herbertian elements which this study finds in Hopkins' early. poems removes any doubts about the influence of Herbert on Hopkins. It is then shown that, after becoming a Roman Catholic, Hopkins continues to be influenced significantly by the Anglican poet.</p> <p>It is suggested that Hopkins first encountered Herbert's poetry at Oxford, under the influence of the Tractarians. Their limited view of Herbert, together with the related views of Herbert held by the Romantics and the Pre-Raphaelites, are therefore considered at some length. In his mature poems Hopkins seems to have come to a fuller appreciation of Herbert's poetry than that afforded by his contemporaries; the ways in which he incorporates some of Herbert's stylistic features in later poems, while developing a style that is peculiarly different to Herbert's, are touched upon in this light. Herbert's influence on Hopkins is, thus, an important one which remains extensive throughout Hopkins' poetic life.</p>