How were the coffee houses responsible for the growth of the periodicals in the early 18th century England? [British Poetry (2018-19) Assignment 2]

The early 18th century in England saw a significant growth in the periodical press, which was fueled in large part by the rise of coffee houses. Coffee houses were places where people could gather to discuss news, politics, and other topics of interest. They became popular gathering places for writers, intellectuals, and other members of the literati, who would exchange ideas and debate the issues of the day.

The coffee houses played an important role in the growth of the periodical press in several ways:

They provided a ready market for periodicals: The coffee houses were popular gathering places for literate and educated people, who were eager to read and discuss the latest news and ideas. This provided a ready market for periodicals, which could be sold or distributed in the coffee houses.

They facilitated the exchange of ideas and information: The coffee houses were places where people could exchange ideas and information, and debate the issues of the day. This created a demand for periodicals that could provide a forum for these discussions, and which could help disseminate new ideas and information.

They provided a space for writers and publishers: The coffee houses provided a space for writers and publishers to meet and discuss their work. They could use these spaces to network, share ideas, and develop new projects.

They helped create a sense of community: The coffee houses helped create a sense of community among writers, intellectuals, and other members of the literati. This community could support and encourage the growth of the periodical press, and provide a ready audience for new publications.

In conclusion, the coffee houses played an important role in the growth of the periodical press in early 18th century England. They provided a ready market for periodicals, facilitated the exchange of ideas and information, provided a space for writers and publishers, and helped create a sense of community among the literati. These factors helped to fuel the growth of the periodical press, which would become an important part of English literary and intellectual culture in the 18th century.