An Essay on Criticism

John Oldmixon’s essay opens as a brisk guide to “right thinking” in literature, deliberately sidestepping lofty philosophical debates in favor of concrete examples. He gathers passages from English writers, showcasing both skillful artistry and glaring missteps, and invites readers to imitate the admired while learning from the flawed. The work also serves as a practical prelude to his forthcoming translation of a French treatise on proper thought, positioning the essay as a bridge between continental theory and English practice.

Beyond its instructional tone, the essay carries a clear political edge, targeting prominent Whig figures such as Clarendon, Pope, and Laurence Echard with sharp, sometimes sarcastic commentary. Oldmixon’s criticism is both personal and scholarly, offering praise where due but never shying from exposing what he sees as literary shortcomings. Listeners will appreciate the lively blend of historical context, literary analysis, and the spirited polemics that marked early‑18th‑century debates.