Garraway’s Coffee House in Exchange Alley, London, 1873.George Walter Thornbury (1828–1876).
The 17th and 18th centuries in England were marked by significant cultural and intellectual developments. One of the most remarkable phenomena of this period was the rise of coffee houses. These establishments became crucial hubs for social interaction, intellectual exchange, and literary creation.
The first coffee house in England was established in Oxford in 1650 by a man named Jacob. However, it was not until 1652 that London’s first coffee house, opened by Pasqua Rosée, came into being. By the late 17th century, coffee houses had proliferated throughout London and other major cities, becoming essential fixtures of urban life. Coffee houses were accessible and affordable, attracting a diverse clientele that included merchants, politicians, artists, writers, and intellectuals. These venues offered a space where individuals from different social backgrounds could gather to discuss news, politics, business, and literature over a cup of coffee.
Intellectual Exchange and Literary Development
Coffee houses played a pivotal role in fostering intellectual exchange and the development of literature. They provided a democratic space for the free flow of ideas, encouraging debates and discussions on a wide range of topics. This atmosphere of intellectual stimulation had a profound influence on the literary output of the period. Coffee houses were essential in the dissemination of literary works. They often functioned as informal libraries where patrons could read and share pamphlets, books, and newspapers. Writers and publishers used coffee houses to distribute their works and gather feedback from readers. The social nature of coffee houses facilitated networking and collaboration among writers and intellectuals. Many prominent literary figures, such as John Dryden, Alexander Pope, and Samuel Johnson, were known to frequent coffee houses. These interactions led to the formation of literary circles and societies, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among writers. The vibrant and dynamic environment of coffee houses provided writers with inspiration and material for their works. The diverse conversations and debates that took place in these venues often found their way into literature, enriching the content and themes explored by writers.
Notable Coffee Houses and Their Literary Connections
Several coffee houses in 17th and 18th century England gained renown for their association with literary figures and movements. Will’s Coffee House, located in Covent Garden, became a famous meeting place for writers and poets. John Dryden, a leading literary figure of the time, was a regular patron, and the venue became known as the “Wits’ Coffee House” due to the presence of many prominent writers and intellectuals. Button’s Coffee House, founded by Daniel Button in 1712, was a popular haunt for writers and journalists. Joseph Addison and Richard Steele, the founders of The Spectator magazine, were frequent visitors. Button’s also hosted the “Lion’s Head,” a letterbox where readers could submit their contributions to The Spectator. Jonathan’s Coffee House was known for its association with the emerging financial press. Jonathan Swift, the satirist and author of Gulliver’s Travels, was among its patrons. The coffee house played a crucial role in the development of financial journalism and the dissemination of literary works related to economic and political issues.
The Decline of Influence
The influence of coffee houses on literature began to wane in the late 18th century. Several factors contributed to their decline. Exclusive clubs and societies began to emerge, offering a more private and controlled environment for intellectual exchange. These clubs often catered to specific social classes and professions, reducing the democratic nature of coffee houses. The growth of newspapers and periodicals provided new platforms for literary dissemination and intellectual exchange. Coffee houses were no longer the primary venues for accessing news and literature. Additionally, the increasing commercialization of coffee houses and competition from other forms of entertainment, such as taverns and theaters, led to a decline in their popularity.
Final Thoughts
Coffee houses in 17th and 18th century England played a crucial role in shaping the literary landscape of the period. They provided a space for intellectual exchange, networking, and collaboration among writers, significantly influencing the development of literature. The legacy of these establishments can still be seen in the vibrant literary culture that emerged from their influence. Despite their decline, the impact of coffee houses on literature remains an essential chapter in the history of English literary development.
