Why did Blake hate the classics? (MEG 102) (UNIT 12 WILLIAM BLAKE )

William Blake did not hate the classics in general, but he was critical of some aspects of classical culture and its influence on contemporary society. In particular, he saw classical art and literature as a representation of the dominant values of his time, which he believed were limiting and oppressive.

Blake saw the classics as part of a broader cultural tradition that emphasized reason, rationality, and order. He believed that this tradition was responsible for many of the social and political problems of his time, including poverty, inequality, and injustice. He saw classical art and literature as a reflection of these values, and believed that they reinforced the dominant cultural and social norms of his time.

Instead of celebrating the classics, Blake was interested in exploring alternative forms of artistic expression that challenged the dominant values of his time. He was particularly interested in exploring the imagination and the inner life of the individual, and saw these as a way to break free from the limitations of traditional culture and explore new forms of creativity and expression.

Overall, Blake's attitude toward the classics was shaped by his broader critique of contemporary society and culture. While he acknowledged the importance of classical art and literature, he saw them as part of a broader cultural tradition that he believed needed to be challenged and reimagined in order to create a more just and equitable society.