An Analysis of “A Satire against Reason and

Mankind”

By Elena Farnsworth and Seth Carter

Born: 1 April 1647 Died: 26 July 1680 at

age 33 Probably from syphilis

Known for Precociousness Satiric wit Rakish lifestyle Hedonistic and Libertine

Ideals

John Wilmot, Second Earl of Rochester

Rochester wrote the “Satire” to demonstrate

the superiority of the libertine as an individual and the flaws of “wrong” reasoning of his society.

Thesis

Hedonism

The doctrine that pleasure or happiness is the sole or chief good in life

Libertinism The quality or state of being a person who is

unrestrained by convention or morality Rochester was known as a notable adherent to

this philosophy

Hedonists and Libertines

What are some other examples of Libertinism

or Hedonism in literature?

Libertinism and Hedonism in Classic Literature

Who is the “I” in this poem?

Rochester? An individual libertine? Libertines in general?

“Thus, whilst against false reasoning I inveigh, I own right reason, which I would obey.”

“Your reason hinders, mine helps to enjoy, renewing appetites yours would destroy.”

“This plain distinction, Sir, your doubt secures, ‘Tis not true reason I despise, but yours”

Discussion

According to Rochester, why are instincts more exalted

than reason? “Reason, which fifty times for one does err.” “His wisdom did his happiness destroy, Aiming to know

that world he should enjoy; and wit was his vain frivolous pretence of pleasing others at his own expense.”

“Those creatures are the wisest who attain by surest means, the ends at which they aim.”

Discussion (continued)

Vs.

What were some complaints Rochester had against

mankind? “The senses are too gross, and he’ll contrive a sixth to

contradict the other five.” “Thus I think reason righted, but for man, I’ll ne’er recant,

defend him if you can.” “Leading a tedious life in misery under laborious mean

hypocrisy.” “That lust of power to which he’s such a slave, and for the

which alone he dares be brave.” What do you think this last couplet means?

“If such there be, yet grant me this at least, man differs more from man, than man from beast.”

Discussion (continued)