This invention is directed to a class of arylcyclobutene monomers having the general formula: ##STR1## wherein Ar is aromatic, with the proviso that the carbons of the cyclobutene rings are bonded to adjacent carbon atoms on the same aromatic ring of Ar;and R.sup.1 is a divalent alkyl, cycloaliphatic, aromatic, heteroaromatic, or heterocyclic moiety;polymeric compositions containing these monomers; and articles containing said polymeric compositions.