In the long essay “A Defense of Poesy”, Sir Philip Sidney responds to the Puritan movement's attempts to repress poets and their work by characterizing poetry as the roots of culture and intelligence. Sidney uses mythical allusions and historical references to various cultures to create an all-encompassing argument that promotes the continued development of poetry in society, as well as defends its current and past existence. Sidney's work is considered some of the most critical and influential literary criticism of its time. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay The Puritan movement lasted through the 16th and 17th centuries and was characterized by the desire to cleanse the church of the corruption of the Catholic clergy. At this time in history, the church was a largely influential part of government, and much of this corruption stemmed from the intertwining of the two. Additionally, the Catholic Church had begun selling items known as Indulgences, which were relics sold by the Church to forgive one's sins, or even to forgive future sins at a greater cost. Rituals invented by the Church, which are not found in the Bible, outraged many people who believed in the crude interpretation of the Bible, especially with the growing literacy rate allowing more people to be able to read the Bible themselves, as opposed to being told that that was written by a priest or other esteemed member of the Catholic Church. One result of this outrage was the formation of the Puritan Movement. The Puritans had extremely strict views about people's actions and works and their conformity to the Bible. Poets and playwrights were particularly criticized by the Puritans, who claimed that such creation of fiction would only lead to moral corruption and the increase of materialism, both of which were deemed harmful to the progress of society. To refute the attacks of Puritan writers, Sidney composed “A Defense of Poetry.” He argues that poetry, in fact, brings moral good to society. He continues to refer to poetry as a tool for exercising and expanding the imagination. Imagination, according to him, is the source of man's sympathy, compassion and love. He goes on to say that there are three different types of poetry: religious poetry, philosophical poetry, and poetry that functions as an imaginative treatment of life and nature. He states that even in the most primitive societies, such as the American Indians, poets have always existed and in a place of respect. Poetry has been used to preserve the memory of historical events, cultural values, ideas and wisdom since its inception. He writes that poets are superior to regular historians and philosophers, due to their ability to convey history and ideas in an imaginative and creative way that appeals to the human condition. It can present factual information in a way that people can understand. Sidney states that the philosopher teaches “as only the learned can understand” (955). Poetry is also different from history and philosophy in its ability to move and encourage virtuous action. Sidney goes on to mention that many great philosophers, whose ideas are highly regarded and generally respected at this time, were actually poets. Plato is one of the most notable examples of a great philosopher and poet. An interesting and clever fact Sydney points out is that the word “poet” in Greek and Roman times actually meant “creator” or “profit.” This coincides with his thesis that throughout history poets have been respected and regarded with reverence by members of society, and forms a strong point with the Puritans who.