Poetry of tears and spiritual contemplation: Robert Southwell in the context of the English meditative tradition

Haltrin-Khalturina Elena V.,

Doctor of Philology, Leading Researcher

Gorky Institute of World Literature of the Russian Academy of Sciences

e-mail: el.haltrin@imli.ru

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2205-9444

This article explores the devotional poetry of Robert Southwell (circa 1561–1595), a prominent poet and preacher of the English Counter-Reformation, whose work played a crucial role in shaping the meditative tradition in English literature. The author examines Southwell not only as a predecessor of metaphysical poetry, associated with John Donne and George Herbert, but also as a central figure in the development of penitential lamentation and meditative lyric. Particular attention is given to the critical debate surrounding the term “metaphysical poetry” and its reconsideration in the works of L. Martz. The article investigates Southwell’s engagement with Catholic spiritual practices, including the influence of Ignatius of Loyola’s Spiritual Exercises and the rosary tradition. It also examines the reception of his poetry in English literary culture, highlighting textual resonances with Shakespeare, Nashe, and later poets. By situating Southwell within the broader literary and religious landscape of the late Renaissance, the study illuminates the complex intersections of poetry, spirituality, and cultural memory in early modern England.

Keywords: English literature, meditative poetry, Counter-Reformation, complaints and the “tear poetry”, reflection on the earthly life of the Savior and the Virgin Mary, rosary, religious lyric

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