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Reflections on Dr. Swift's Letter to Harley (1712) and The British Academy (1712)   By: (1673-1742)

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In "Reflections on Dr. Swift's Letter to Harley (1712) and The British Academy (1712)" by Mr. (John) Oldmixon, the reader is presented with a scathing critique of two influential works by the renowned writer Jonathan Swift. Oldmixon, a contemporary of Swift, offers a thorough analysis of the contents and implications of these papers, delving into their respective strengths and weaknesses.

The first section of the book focuses on "Dr. Swift's Letter to Harley," which was a political tract written during a time of immense political and social upheaval in England. Oldmixon skillfully dissects Swift's arguments and highlights the author's biases and motivations. He questions Swift's assertions and wonders whether the letter truly aimed to address the issues at hand or serve an ulterior motive.

Oldmixon's scrutiny extends to the second part of the book, where he examines "The British Academy," another controversial pamphlet written by Swift during the same period. This portion of the book provides valuable insight into Swift's thinking and the prevailing socio-political climate of the time. Oldmixon uncovers what he perceives as inconsistencies and fallacies in Swift's arguments, exposing the limited scope and biases of the author's mindset.

What sets this book apart is Oldmixon's comprehensive research and his ability to back his claims with solid evidence and counter-arguments. He provides historical context, drawing on various sources to strengthen his case against Swift's works. By engaging with Swift's ideas and challenging them, Oldmixon effectively fosters critical thinking and encourages readers to form their own opinions on these important texts.

One of the notable aspects of this book is Oldmixon's engaging writing style. He employs rhetoric techniques and literary devices to hold the reader's attention, while also conveying his ideas concisely and persuasively. This makes for a compelling and enlightening read, particularly for those interested in the political and intellectual history of 18th-century England.

However, one potential drawback of the book is its limited focus on Swift's writings. While Oldmixon succeeds in critiquing these specific works, his analysis does not extend to exploring Swift's broader contributions to literature and society. This could leave some readers wishing for a more comprehensive analysis of Swift's ideas and their impact in the wider context.

Despite this limitation, "Reflections on Dr. Swift's Letter to Harley (1712) and The British Academy (1712)" remains a valuable piece of literary criticism and historical scholarship. Oldmixon offers a thought-provoking examination of Swift's political tracts, shedding light on their significance and the underlying motives behind them. This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in Swift's writings and the complexities of the political landscape during this pivotal period in British history.

First Page:

Series Six: Poetry and Language

No. 1

John Oldmixon, Reflections on Dr. Swift's Letter to Harley (1712);

and

Arthur Mainwaring, The British Academy (1712).

With an Introduction by Louis A. Landa

The Augustan Reprint Society September, 1948 Price: 75 cents

GENERAL EDITORS

RICHARD C. BOYS, University of Michigan EDWARD NILES HOOKER, University of California, Los Angeles H. T. SWEDENBERG, JR., University of California, Los Angeles

ASSISTANT EDITOR

W. EARL BRITTON, University of Michigan

ADVISORY EDITORS

EMMETT L. AVERY, State College of Washington BENJAMIN BOYCE, University of Nebraska LOUIS I. BREDVOLD, University of Michigan CLEANTH BROOKS, Yale University JAMES L. CLIFFORD, Columbia University ARTHUR FRIEDMAN, University of Chicago SAMUEL H. MONK, University of Minnesota ERNEST MOSSNER, University of Texas JAMES SUTHERLAND, Queen Mary College, London

Lithoprinted from copy supplied by author by Edwards Brothers, Inc. Ann Arbor, Michigan, U.S.A. 1948

INTRODUCTION

The two tracts reprinted here, as well as Swift's Proposal for correcting, improving and ascertaining the English tongue , which occasioned them, may be viewed in the context of the many seventeenth and eighteenth century suggestions for the formation of a British Academy... Continue reading book >>




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