Pope’s The Essay on Criticism is known for its brilliant epigrams. Select the option which is mentioned in the given work.

Correct option is C

Explanation:
The correct answer is To err is human; to forgive, divine.

This famous epigram appears in An Essay on Criticism by Alexander Pope, written in 1711. The phrase suggests that making mistakes is a natural part of being human, but the ability to forgive others is a noble and godlike quality. Pope emphasizes the importance of humility and tolerance, especially in literary criticism and moral judgment.

Pope’s An Essay on Criticism is a didactic poem written in heroic couplets, providing guidelines for critics and writers. It explores themes such as the dangers of pride, the role of nature in poetry, and the importance of balance and moderation in criticism.

Information Booster:

The goal of Alexander Pope's "An Essay on Criticism" is to establish standards of appropriate taste for both poetry and poetry criticism. It is a rhyming verse essay that satirizes amateur poetry and criticism while offering guidance to the budding critic. The well-known quote that opens "A little learning is a dangerous thing" cautions aspiring critics to thoroughly study their profession because the arts need far more time and effort than novices anticipate. Another way to interpret the passage is as a cautionary tale about learning that is too superficial. Alexander Pope, who was only 23 at the time of its publication in 1711, gained renown and fame for the "Essay" while he was still a young poet.

Meaning of the Epigram:

• To err is human – Everyone makes mistakes because imperfection is part of human nature.
  
• To forgive, divine – Forgiveness requires a higher moral or spiritual strength, making it a godlike virtue.
  

Context in An Essay on Criticism

• Pope warns against harsh, unforgiving critics who judge too quickly.
  
• He advises critics to be understanding and forgiving, as no writer or critic is perfect.
  

Style of Pope’s Writing:

• Known for his brilliant use of epigrams – short, witty, and memorable phrases.
  
• His poetry follows the Neoclassical tradition, emphasizing order, reason, and harmony.
  

Other Famous Epigrams from An Essay on Criticism:

• "A little learning is a dangerous thing."
  
• "Fools rush in where angels fear to tread."
  

Additional Knowledge:

1. The truth is rarely pure and never simple  – This is from Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest.
   
2. And all the men and women merely players  – This is from William Shakespeare’s As You Like It.
3. No one is completely unhappy at the failure of his best friend  – This is from François de La Rochefoucauld, a French moralist.