The Neoclassical era, is neatly nestled between the Renaissance and the Romantic periods; eventhough it was a brief period it’s infleunce can still be seen in literature to this very day. The term neo means new, whilst the term classical refers to Greek Roman style of the arts. Neoclassical authors viewed the world around them under a new light compared to those of the Renaissance. Writers of this period placed more importance on social needs rather than those of the single individual, they believed that man could find purpose in the natural order of things alongside; religion, government, literature and society as a whole. It is important to keep in mind that this literary period was heavily influenced by the Commonwealth Period. This era ran from the end of the English Civil War, to the restoration of the Stuart monarchy. During this time frame, the nation was governed by a Puritan Government led by Oliver Cromwell. Moreover it’s to be noted, that public theaters were closed (for nearly two decades) to prevent public assemblies, as well as to counteract moral and religious transgressions. In this regards the Restoration period sees some response to the puritanical age, especially in the theatrical environment.