Urbanization

Definition

Urbanization is the process by which an increasing percentage of a population comes to live in urban areas, often resulting from the movement of people from rural to urban environments. This phenomenon leads to the growth of cities and the transformation of societal structures, economies, and cultural practices, reflecting significant changes in lifestyle and social dynamics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During the 18th century, urbanization accelerated in England as people moved to cities for job opportunities created by the Industrial Revolution.
2. George Lillo's 'The London Merchant' reflects urban themes by depicting the lives and moral dilemmas of individuals living in a burgeoning city environment.
3. The rise of urbanization contributed to new forms of drama, such as bourgeois tragedy, which focused on the lives of everyday people rather than nobility.
4. As cities grew, social issues such as poverty, crime, and class conflict became more pronounced, influencing literary representations during this period.
5. Urbanization also fostered a sense of community among the middle class, leading to new cultural expressions and literary forms that captured their experiences.

Review Questions

• How did urbanization influence the themes present in George Lillo's 'The London Merchant'?
  • Urbanization is central to the themes in George Lillo's 'The London Merchant,' as the play portrays the struggles and moral challenges faced by characters living in an urban setting. The city serves not only as a backdrop but also as a catalyst for conflict and transformation. Through the lens of bourgeois tragedy, Lillo illustrates how the pressures of city life impact individual choices and societal values, highlighting issues like class tension and personal responsibility.
• What role did the Industrial Revolution play in accelerating urbanization during the Restoration and early 18th century?
  • The Industrial Revolution played a crucial role in accelerating urbanization during this period by creating new job opportunities in factories and industries that were predominantly located in urban centers. As agricultural work diminished due to mechanization, many individuals migrated from rural areas seeking better economic prospects. This shift not only led to population growth in cities but also transformed social structures and contributed to a burgeoning middle class that became prominent in literature.
• Evaluate the impact of urbanization on literary forms during the Restoration and early 18th century, particularly in relation to bourgeois tragedy.
  • Urbanization had a profound impact on literary forms during this time, particularly in shaping bourgeois tragedy as a genre. As cities expanded and the middle class emerged as a significant social force, literature began to reflect their experiences, challenges, and moral dilemmas. This shift allowed playwrights like George Lillo to address contemporary social issues through relatable characters and settings. Consequently, bourgeois tragedy not only provided entertainment but also prompted audiences to reflect on their societal roles and responsibilities amid rapid urban change.

Related terms

Industrial Revolution:

A period of major industrialization during the late 18th and early 19th centuries that significantly changed economies, societies, and the nature of work.

Bourgeoisie: The middle class in capitalist societies, particularly those involved in commerce and industry, who emerged as a powerful social class during urbanization.

Urban Sprawl: The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into the surrounding rural land, often leading to environmental and infrastructural challenges.