In 1720, the publication of John Playford's 'The Dancing Master' spurred a widespread craze for English Country Dances, emphasizing social interaction and partner switching over rigid solo performances. This phenomenon not only transformed social dancing but also contributed to the cultural landscape of England, fostering community engagement and entertainment. The success of Playford's manuals facilitated the spread of these dances across Europe, influencing social customs of the time.

The spread of the English Country Dance craze via Playford's manuals in the 1720s popularized a rustic aesthetic that influenced Augustan poets. These poets began to write lighter, more accessible social verse, celebrating pastoral gatherings and the joys of country life over the formalities of courtly culture.