| Welcome to the 18th century! Religion is a serious political issue in 18th century England, considering the Jacobite Rebellions and the rise of Methodism. In this political climate, religious satire flourished to an unparalleled high. Jonathan Swift, the most famed satirist of the 18th century and perhaps onward, began writing in the late 17th century until well into the 18th century. His works are many examples of religious satire. Methodism, which is now a "respectable" religion, was reviled and satirised profusely throughout the 18th century. Many authors such as Henry Fielding were not primarily religious satirists, but commonly held beliefs about religion manifested themselves through their works. |
