Arguments and Counterarguments for and against Coffee in 17th-Century English Literature

Abstract

Coffee was a foreign product in Britain, only introduced during the Post-Medieval period. The introduction was not smooth as it was viewed as a drink from the Moors or the Turks. Two groups emerged – one favouring coffee and one deriding it – and the conflicts were depicted in books, pamphlets, and leaflets of that era. Coffee faced opposition from other beverage sellers as it became a threat to their existing businesses. During its initial days, there was even a call for a baptism of the drink to wash out its “Satanic influence”. Coffee, seen as a medicine in its earlier days in Britain, became an essential part of everyday life in the late 17th century. Coffee houses became a place for public gatherings where social, political, and business discussions took place. This paper will explore the discussions and debates revolving around coffee in 17th-Century English Literature.

Keywords

• coffee
• race
• gender politics
• coffee houses
• class issues