An Essay on Man is a philosophical poem by Alexander Pope published in four epistles in 1733-1734. Addressed to his friend Lord Bolingbroke, it seeks to show that the universe is ordered and that humans should accept their place in the great chain of being. It was one of the most widely read poems of the eighteenth century.
Four epistles
The first epistle considers man's place in the universe, the second man as an individual, the third man in society, and the fourth the question of happiness.
Pope argues that what seems evil to us may be part of a larger good that we cannot see.
The chain of being
The poem describes a great chain stretching from the smallest creature to the highest, with man in the middle, between animal and angel.
Human pride, which wants to rise above this place, is presented as the source of error.
Its reception
The poem was translated into many languages and admired across Europe. Voltaire praised it, and Rousseau discussed it.
Others, like the philosopher Kant in his youth, quoted it often, while later readers criticized its optimism.
Anecdotes
Published anonymously
Pope first published the poem without his name, partly to hear honest opinions. Some critics who praised it changed their minds when they learned who the author was.
Bolingbroke's influence
Pope's friend Lord Bolingbroke, a former statesman, discussed philosophy with him at length, and the poem owes much to their conversations.
Frequently asked questions
To whom is the poem addressed?
To Lord Bolingbroke.
How many epistles does it have?
Four.
When was it published?
In 1733-1734.