What is the context of The Chimney Sweeper? (MEG 102) (SONGS OF INNOCENCE AND SONGS OF EXPERIENCE)

"The Chimney Sweeper" is a poem by William Blake that was published in two parts, one in the Songs of Innocence (1789) and the other in the Songs of Experience (1794). The poem is set in London during the 18th century when child labor was prevalent, and children were forced to work long hours in harsh conditions.

The chimney sweeper in Blake's poem was a common sight in London during that time. Children as young as four or five years old were employed to clean chimneys in large buildings, factories, and homes. These children were subjected to dangerous working conditions, including exposure to toxic soot, suffocation, and physical abuse.

In the poem, Blake portrays the plight of these young chimney sweepers, who were often orphans or from poor families, and were sold to work in the chimneys. The poem depicts the innocence of the children who are forced to work in these conditions, and the cruel and exploitative nature of the society that allowed such practices to continue.

Thus, the context of "The Chimney Sweeper" is the harsh reality of child labor and exploitation that existed in London during the 18th century, and Blake uses this context to highlight the injustice and cruelty of society and the need for social reform.