The Tour Of Dr Syntax In Search Of The Picturesque
The Tour of Dr Syntax in Search of the Picturesque is a poem written by William Combe that follows the adventures of Dr Syntax, a slightly bumbling character who travels around the countryside in search of picturesque views and experiences.
The poem is a satire on the obsession with the picturesque that was popular in the 18th and early 19th century. The picturesque was a style of landscape that emphasized rustic, natural beauty and was often associated with the Romantic movement.
The Plot of The Tour of Dr Syntax
The Tour of Dr Syntax is divided into three parts, each of which follows Dr Syntax on a different adventure.
Part One: The Picturesque
In the first part of the poem, Dr Syntax is accompanied by a guide who takes him to various picturesque locations. However, the guide turns out to be a thief who steals Dr Syntax's money and leaves him stranded in the countryside. Dr Syntax is forced to walk back to town, where he is ridiculed for his foolishness.
Part Two: The Library
In the second part of the poem, Dr Syntax visits a library in search of knowledge. However, he falls asleep and dreams that he is being chased by various monsters and creatures. He wakes up to find himself surrounded by books and realizes that knowledge can be just as terrifying as the monsters in his dream.
Part Three: The Road
In the third and final part of the poem, Dr Syntax sets out on a journey along a dangerous road. Along the way, he meets various characters, including a highwayman, a group of gypsies, and a peddler. He also witnesses a murder and is ultimately saved by a group of soldiers.
The Legacy of The Tour of Dr Syntax
The Tour of Dr Syntax in Search of the Picturesque was a popular book when it was first published in 1809 and went on to inspire a number of sequels and adaptations. The character of Dr Syntax also became a popular figure in art and illustration, appearing in everything from satirical prints to decorative plates.
Today, The Tour of Dr Syntax is remembered as a humorous satire on the Romantic obsession with the picturesque and a charming example of early 19th-century popular literature.
Conclusion
The Tour of Dr Syntax in Search of the Picturesque is a delightful and entertaining poem that pokes fun at the Romantic obsession with rustic landscapes and adventures. Whether you are a fan of historical literature or just looking for a good laugh, The Tour of Dr Syntax is definitely worth a read.
