An Analysis of Metaphysical Conceits in John Donne’s Poems

Abstract

In the seventeenth century British literary arena appears a unique school of poetry called “metaphysical school”. The most remarkable characteristic of the metaphysical poetry is the original and arresting conceits. John Donne is the forefather and the most representative of the school. Through analyzing the sources of conceits in John Donne’s poems, this paper attempts to clarify the using of conceits in John Donne’s representative poems, and then summarize the features and unique functions of conceits. It is hoped that it can help readers to have a better understanding of the poet’s poetry, and grasp his thoughts.