The Restoration Period (1660-1700)

The period from the restoration of monarchy in 1660 by the Stuart king Charles II,(after the dissolution of the Puritan Commonwealth government), to the end of the century in 1700 is known as Restoration period in the history of English literature. The period includes the reign of:

1. Charles II (1660-1685)
2. James II (1685-1688)
3. William III and his wife Mary II (1688-1702)

The people of England were tired of the strict rule under Oliver Cromwell and happily welcomed back the monarchy, even though Charles II’s reign was often seen as disgraceful. In 1688, the Glorious Revolution happened, which limited the power of the kings and strengthened the role of Parliament. After this, Parliament had the authority to make or remove a king. By the end of the century, the king’s power had declined, and Parliament became much stronger. England wasn’t a full democracy yet, but it had taken an important step towards limiting royal authority.

Socio-political Condition 

When Charles II returned to England, big changes took place both in society and politics. In every way the Restoration age heralded the birth of a new age. A new society and new literature began in 1660. The social life, the manners, literary traditions, all underwent a process of transformation. A clear change was noticed between the Restoration and the Renaissance. During the Elizabethan period (like under Queen Elizabeth), people had bold dreams of endless possibilities, in travel, learning, and imagination, as seen in writers like Marlowe and Bacon. But during the Restoration, people became more aware of the limits of human life and were more focused on making the most out of real, practical possibilities rather than dreaming big.

In society, a strong reaction against Puritanism (the strict religious way of life promoted by Cromwell) was seen. The strictness of the Puritan government disappeared, and suppressed activities now flourished — often without limits. People turned back to fun and entertainment. Theatres reopened, and activities like bull-baiting, music, dancing, and sports returned. Instead of focusing on religion and the afterlife, people began enjoying worldly pleasures.

The Commonwealth had promoted seriousness and self-control, but the Restoration encouraged wild living, even if it led to immoral behaviour. The morals of the people were entirely changed. Licentiousness gained the upper hand. Morality was on the wane and everywhere there was lavity in life. Charles II was himself dissolute and selfish and surrounded his court with men and women who rivalled in these qualities. His court was a place where favouritism ruled over merit and skill.

In the political scene of the Restoration period, tensions began to rise between two main political groups: the Whigs and the Tories. The Whigs generally supported limiting the powers of the monarchy and believed in the rights of Parliament and individual liberties. On the other hand, the Tories were loyal to the king and supported royal authority and traditional institutions like the Church of England. As these political divisions deepened, politics became a central focus of the age, strongly influencing its literature as well.

Unlike earlier times when political ideas were often tied to religious ideals and dreams of a godly government (theocracy), the Restoration era shifted toward practical concerns and real-world governance. People began to value stability and moderation. The chaos of the earlier civil war and strict Puritan rule had made people wary of passionate political or religious enthusiasm. As a result, they preferred behaviour guided by reason and common sense. Society began to follow set rules of etiquette and social customs. In this structured environment, personal expression was allowed—but only within certain socially accepted limits.

Establishment of Royal Society 

The establishment of the Royal Society was a landmark event in the history of England. It was founded with the support of the English government and functioned as a scholarly club. It marked the beginning of the Enlightenment in England, a period that emphasized the importance of science, reason, and logic. The Society’s main goals were to promote science and encourage scientific exploration. It played a key role in initiating rational inquiry and advancing knowledge through observation and experimentation, rather than relying solely on broad theories like those proposed by Francis Bacon.

The Great Fire of London

The Great Fire of London was one of the most devastating events in English history. It began in the early hours of 2nd September 1666 in the bakery of Thomas Farriner on Pudding Lane. The fire spread rapidly due to strong winds and the wooden structure of buildings, eventually destroying much of the old city. Around 300 houses were burned, and approximately 10,000 people were left homeless. The impact of the fire on the people of London was enormous. Many lost their homes, businesses, and belongings.

In literature, the Great Fire became a symbol of destruction and renewal. Writers of the Restoration period, including John Dryden and diarist Samuel Pepys, recorded the event and its aftermath. Pepys’s detailed diary entries provide valuable insight into the chaos and suffering caused by the fire. The disaster influenced themes of fragility, human resilience, and urban transformation in Restoration literature.

Religious Conflict 

During the Restoration period, there was serious religious conflict in England. After Charles II became king in 1660, the Church of England was restored, and other groups like Puritans, Catholics, and dissenters were punished for their beliefs. Many laws were passed to force people to follow the Anglican Church. People feared Catholics, especially when the king’s brother James became Catholic, leading to political and religious tensions. These conflicts eventually led to the Glorious Revolution in 1688, when James II was removed from the throne. Religious struggles during this time deeply affected society and influenced the literature of the period.

French Influence 

French influence was also very strong during this time because Charles II had lived in France for many years. French styles, manners, and ways of thinking spread among the upper classes and gradually influenced society at all levels. This influence brought some culture and refinement, even if it was often just on the surface.

Conclusion:

The Restoration period in England was a time of big changes in society and politics. After the return of King Charles II, people moved away from the strict and serious Puritan way of life and started enjoying theatre, music, and fun again. However, there were also many problems, like fights between different religious groups and struggles over power between the king and Parliament. In the end, Parliament became stronger, especially after the Glorious Revolution. This period also saw progress in science and the use of reason, which helped to lay the foundation of the Enlightenment. Overall, the Restoration period was a time of both trouble and growth that shaped England’s future.

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