Charles Lamb, the essayist, poet, and critic of the early 19th century, gained fame through his renowned collection of writings known as "The Essays of Elia." One of the notable essays in this collection is "The Praise of Chimney Sweepers," which encompasses elements of autobiography, humor, fancy, and sentiment.
Lamb sheds light on the children of industrialized England who were tasked with cleaning the chimneys of factories. He uses elements of autobiography, humor, fancy, and sentiment to create a sympathetic and humorous portrait of these underprivileged youth. He criticizes the harsh treatment they receive from society and praises their resilience and joyfulness.
One of the elements that Lamb uses in his essay is autobiography, which allows him to share his personal experiences and opinions on chimney sweepers. He narrates an incident where a gentleman on a morning walk assists the sweepers, mentioning Mr. Read, who owns a renowned establishment that caters to the tastes of the sweeps even in the early hours of the morning. He also praises his friend James White, who shared a similar compassion for young chimney sweepers. To entertain them, White organized an annual banquet during the St. Bartholomew fair in Smithfield. Lamb, White, and their friend John Fenwick served the delighted sweeps, wishing for their brushes to triumph over the pens of poets. The sweeps enjoyed a gratifying dinner with an extensive menu. However, after James White's death, the dinner eventually came to an end. In subsequent years, the fair itself was discontinued due to it being considered a public nuisance. Lamb's use of autobiography gives his essay a personal and intimate tone, and shows his genuine interest and affection for the chimney sweepers.
Another element that Lamb uses in his essay is humor, which creates a contrast between the grim reality of the chimney sweepers' work and their cheerful attitude. He also uses humor to mock the hypocrisy and cruelty of the society that exploits them. He shows his admiration for their sense of humor, which he considers a sign of their humanity and dignity. For example, he describes his fascination with the work of the young sweepers as they navigate through dark chimneys, which he refers to as the "jaws of hell." He also compares the young chimney sweepers to young sparrows whose songs have not fully developed. He finds amusement in their love for a drink called saloop, made from the bark of the Sassafras tree. He is not annoyed when a chimney sweep laughs at him for falling on the pavement one winter day. He takes offense at the pompous display of teeth by ladies and gentlemen in society, but he finds sweeps to be like silver lightning in a dark night's sable cloud. Lamb's use of humor in his essay makes it more engaging and entertaining for the reader, and also reveals his empathy and respect for the chimney sweepers.
A third element that Lamb uses in his essay is fancy, which allows him to create a romanticized view of the chimney sweepers and their lives. He does not mention the frightening and perilous working conditions, as he wishes to maintain the idealized image he holds of young chimney sweepers. He uses fanciful language and imagery to describe them and their surroundings. For example, he calls them "tender novices" who spend their days "diligently" clearing chimneys. He discusses their "joyful smiles" and their excitement at the annual banquet for young chimney sweepers. He likens them to angels or fairies who have a special connection with nature and innocence. He also compares their work to a heroic adventure or a divine mission. Lamb's use of fancy in his essay creates a sense of wonder and admiration for the chimney sweepers and also shows his desire to protect them from harsh reality.
A fourth element that Lamb uses in his essay is sentiment, which allows him to express his feelings and emotions toward the chimney sweepers. He shows his sympathy and compassion for their struggles and hardships, and also his appreciation and gratitude for their kindness and joyfulness. He urges people to bring cheer to their lives by treating them to a slice of delicate bread and butter alongside a saloop. He criticizes the harsh treatment they receive from society and how they are exploited by adults who kidnap them or train them to clean chimneys that adults cannot reach. He also praises their resilience and patience in enduring their miserable conditions. He considers them gentle and noble beings who may have been kidnapped as infants or fallen into misery due to their family circumstances. He also mentions their childish memories when they seek comfort by sleeping in a tucked-in position, reminiscent of a mother's care. Lamb's use of sentiment in his essay creates a sense of warmth and tenderness for the chimney sweepers and also shows his moral and social awareness.
In conclusion, Charles Lamb sheds light on the children of industrialized England who were tasked with cleaning the chimneys of factories. He uses elements of autobiography, humor, fancy, and sentiment to create a sympathetic and humorous portrait of these underprivileged youth. He criticizes the harsh treatment they receive from society and praises their resilience and joyfulness. Lamb's essay is a remarkable example of his craftsmanship and artistry, and it celebrates the lives of chimney sweepers uniquely and memorably.
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