Introduction to

English literature
Reporter: Irene Montecir
The Anglo-Saxon/Old English Period
(1449-1066)
Dark Ages & Roman Withdrawal

The period took place during the Dark Ages, following the Roman withdrawal in 409
AD. Without a centralized government, Britain became vulnerable to invasions. The
Romans had built roads and defensive walls, such as Hadrian’s Wall, but their
departure led to instability.

Anglo-Saxon Invasions & Settlement

In the mid-5th century, the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes from Germany and Denmark
crossed the North Sea, drove out the native Britons, and settled most of Britain. Their
language, Old English, became dominant, eventually evolving into modern English.
Culture & Beliefs

Before converting to Christianity, the Anglo-Saxons followed a pagan religion that

influenced Celtic mythology. Their beliefs and traditions shaped early British culture and
literature.

Anglo-Saxon Literature

This period was known for epic poetry and historical records. Key literary works include
Beowulf, The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle , Wife lament and The Exeter Book, which contains
poems like The Wanderer and The Seafarer.

Legacy

The Anglo-Saxon period laid the foundation for the English language and culture, lasting
until the Norman Conquest in 1066.
The Medieval Period (1066-1485)
The Medieval Period, also called the Middle Ages, began after the fall of the Western
Roman Empire (476 AD) and lasted until the Renaissance (15th century). It was a time of
feudalism, religious dominance, and cultural transformation in Europe.

Norman Conquest (1066)

Duke William of Normandy defeated King Harold at the Battle of Hastings, ending Anglo-
Saxon rule and establishing Norman control over England. Unlike the Romans, the
Normans remained, permanently influencing English culture, society, and language.

Feudalism

A hierarchical system based on land ownership and loyalty emerged. The king granted
land to nobles, who, in turn, had vassals serving them, ensuring military and economic
stability.
Chivalry

Knights followed a strict code emphasizing loyalty, bravery, and courtesy, especially
towards women and the vulnerable.
Impact on Language
The Normans introduced many French words into English, shaping its vocabulary and
structure.

Medieval Literature

This era saw the rise of ballads, mystery plays, and morality plays. Geoffrey Chaucer, the
“Father of English Literature,” wrote The Canterbury Tales. Other notable works include
Piers Plowman, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and Le Morte d’Arthur by Thomas
Malory.

Impact on Language

The Normans introduced many French words into English, shaping its vocabulary and
structure.Impact on Language
Medieval Literature

This era saw the rise of ballads, mystery plays, and morality plays. Geoffrey Chaucer,
the “Father of English Literature,” wrote The Canterbury Tales. Other notable works
include Piers Plowman, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, and Le Morte d’Arthur by
Thomas Malory.
Meaning and Influence
The Renaissance (1485-1660)
The Renaissance, meaning “rebirth” in French, was a period of renewed interest in classical learning from
Greece and Rome. It revived curiosity, creativity, and humanism, leading to advancements in science,
literature, and art.

Shift in Learning

During the Middle Ages, Latin and Greek were largely forgotten, and literacy was limited to church texts.
The Renaissance rediscovered ancient writings, encouraging independent thinking and artistic expression.

Religious Changes

Patriotism and new ideas led to challenges against the Catholic Church. In 1513, King Henry VIII broke
from Rome after being denied an annulment, establishing the Church of England and beginning the
Protestant Reformation.

Henry VIII and Mary Tudor

Henry VIII strengthened England by expanding the Royal Navy. His daughter, Mary Tudor, reversed his
reforms, restored papal authority, and persecuted Protestants
 The Elizabethan Age (1558-1603)
Queen Elizabeth I’s Reign

Elizabeth I, known as the Virgin Queen, never married and ruled as one of history’s
greatest monarchs. She restored the Church of England after Mary Tudor’s Catholic rule. In
1588, England’s Royal Navy defeated the Spanish Armada, ensuring independence from
Catholic Mediterranean powers. Her reign brought stability, prosperity, and artistic
flourishing.

Literary and Artistic Developments

Elizabeth was a patron of the arts, inspiring poets and playwrights who often dedicated
their works to her. Elizabethan poets valued intricate metaphors, allegories, and structured
forms like the sonnet. Literature combined medieval traditions with Renaissance optimism,
excelling in lyric poetry, prose, and drama.

Notable Writers

William Shakespeare: The greatest English writer, known for 154 sonnets and numerous
plays that showcased profound themes, vivid imagery, and human emotion.
Notable Writers

William Shakespeare: The greatest English writer, known for 154 sonnets and numerous plays that
showcased profound themes, vivid imagery, and human emotion.

Christopher Marlowe: A pioneering playwright, known for Tamburlaine the Great, Doctor Faustus,
The Jew of Malta, and Edward II, earning him the title “Father of the Mighty Line.” His life ended in a
violent tavern brawl.

Ben Jonson: A poet and playwright who rejected romanticism, favoring classical grace and
craftsmanship. His works marked a shift from the extravagant Elizabethan style.

The Elizabethan Age remains a golden era of English literature, with Queen Elizabeth I’s legacy as the
Virgin Queen symbolizing strength, intelligence, and cultural r
evival.
 The Jacobean Age (1603-1625)
The Jacobean Age (1603–1625) refers to the period of King James I’s reign
over England and Scotland. It followed the Elizabethan era and was marked
by significant political, social, and cultural developments.

1. Historical Context

Coincides with the reign of James I.

Literature became sophisticated, sombre, and socially critical.
The King James Bible translation was completed, a major literary and
religious work.

2. Prominent Writers

William Shakespeare & Ben Jonson: Continued producing plays.

Francis Bacon: Known for philosophical and scientific writings

Thomas Middleton: A leading dramatist of the era.

3. Metaphysical Poetry

Focused more on intellectual depth rather than beauty or musicality.

The Metaphysical poets, led by John Donne, used complex imagery,
wit, and deep comparisons from various fields like science and nature.

Donne, a lawyer and priest, wrote religious poetry and introduced

dramatic realism and colloquial speech into his works.

The Jacobean Age was a period of literary sophistication, intellectual

exploration, and poetic complexity, producing some of the most
influential works in English literature.
 The Caroline Age (1625-1649)
The Caroline Age refers to the period of King Charles I’s reign in England (1625–1649). It is part of
the larger Stuart period and is known for its contributions to literature, arts, and political turmoil
leading to the English Civil War.

2. Historical Context

Coincides with the reign of Charles I.

Marked by refined and elegant literary style.
Occurred during a time of political unrest leading to the English Civil War.

3. Cavalier Poets

Supporters of Charles I in the Civil War.

The term “Cavalier” comes from the Italian chevalier (meaning “horse rider”).
Major poets include Thomas Carew, Sir John Suckling, Richard Lovelace, and Edmund Waller.
Influenced by John Donne’s conceits and Ben Jonson’s elegance.
3. literary Characterestics

Used direct, conversational language and an individualistic tone.

Focused on love, pleasure, and the carefree enjoyment of life.

Represented the Renaissance ideal of a well-rounded gentleman but avoided religious themes.

Saw poetry as something to be written in the intervals of living, rather than a deep philosophical
pursuit.

The Caroline Age was the last phase of the Elizabethan literary tradition, blending wit, refinement,
and a focus on the pleasures of life amid looming political tensions.
 The Commonwealth Period (1649-1660)
1. Historical Context

The Commonwealth Period (1649–1660) in England refers to the time when England was ruled as a
republic following the execution of King Charles I in 1649. It was led primarily by Oliver Cromwell
and later his son, Richard Cromwell.

Also known as the Puritan Interregnum.

Began after the execution of Charles I in 1649.

England was ruled by Oliver Cromwell and later his son Richard Cromwell.

Marked by Puritan dominance and strict moral codes.

2. Impact on Literature

The Puritans closed theaters in 1642 on moral and religious grounds, resulting in an absence of
drama for 18 years.
Literature focused on political and religious themes.
3. Major Literary Figures and Works

John Milton:
The most significant poet of the 17th century.
Wrote “Paradise Lost” (published during the Restoration).
“Paradise Lost” Summary:
Consists of twelve books.
Tells the story of Satan’s rebellion, fall from heaven, the creation of Earth, Adam and Eve’s
temptation and fall, their plea for mercy, God’s promise of a Messiah, and their expulsion from
Eden.
Written in majestic blank verse, demonstrating Milton’s Puritan beliefs, grand imagination, and
masterful diction.
Comparable to Virgil, Dante, and Homer in its literary greatness.

Thomas Hobbes:
Wrote “Leviathan”, a political treatise advocating absolute monarchy as the best form of
government
.
Andrew Marvell:
Known for political prose and poetry, often blending intellect, wit, and metaphysical elements.
The Commonwealth Period was a time of strict Puritan rule, limited artistic expression, and
profound political and religious writings, dominated by figures like John Milton and Thomas
Hobbes.
 The Restoration and The Enlightenment (1660-1798)
Historical Background:

England, exhausted by war and disease in 1660, underwent significant transformations by the end
of the 18th century. The restoration of the monarchy marked a period of political stability, and the
rise of rational thinking and scientific inquiry led to the Enlightenment, also called the Age of
Reason.

The Restoration Period (1660-1700):

Marked by the return of King Charles II, leading to a period of political and cultural stability

Literary Characterestics

Literature focused on reason, wit, and satire, moving away from religious dogma.

Rise of Restoration Comedy, which satirized the manners of the aristocracy, featuring witty
dialogue and risqué themes.
Major Writers & Works:

John Milton – Paradise Lost, Paradise Regained

John Dryden – Leading poet and dramatist of the time
John Wilmot, Earl of Rochester – Satirical and scandalous poetry
John Locke – Essay Concerning Human Understanding, influencing modern democracy

The Augustan Age (1700-1745):

Named after the Roman Emperor Augustus, symbolizing a literary golden age.

Literary Characteristics:

Writing became more refined, structured, and satirical.

Heavy influence from classical Roman literature.
The Enlightenment (Age of Reason):

Marked by a shift in thinking: superstition and religious dogma were replaced by reason, science,
and rationalism.
Scientific observation began explaining natural phenomena instead of religious beliefs.

Literary Characteristics:

Poetry became public, structured, and crafted, rather than personal or spontaneous.
The novel became a major literary form, appealing to a broader audience due to its realism and
humor.

Notable Contributions & Themes:

Satire as a tool for social and political criticism (Swift, Pope).

The rise of modern political thought (Locke, Hobbes).

Restoration Comedy mocking aristocratic manners.

Early novels setting the foundation for modern fiction (Defoe’s Robinson Crus
oe).
 The Romantic period (1798-1832)
Historical Background:

The Romantic Period emerged during a time of political and social upheaval. The
American Revolution (losing the thirteen colonies) and the French Revolution
(1789) shook England’s confidence and stability. The rise of Napoleon Bonaparte
led to a long war, with England defeating him at Trafalgar (1805) and finally at
Waterloo (1815).

Meanwhile, industrialization transformed society, creating economic struggles

for the poor. Romantic writers responded by rejecting rigid traditions and
emphasizing emotion, nature, and individualism.
What Does Romantic Mean?

The word romantic comes from the Old French romanz, referring to literature
written in the vernacular (language of the people). Over time, it evolved to mean a
focus on deep emotions, imagination, and nature.

Romanticism is characterized by:

1. Fascination with youth and innocence – valuing emotions, imagination, and

individual identity.

2.Questioning authority and tradition – seeking freedom, justice, and societal

change.

3. Awareness of adapting to change – responding to industrialization and rapid

modernization.
Literary Characteristics of Romanticism:

Poetry became personal, emotional, and imaginative.

Emphasis on nature, the supernatural, and the common life of ordinary people.

Use of simple language instead of complex arguments and polished styles.

Revolutionary ideas – poets challenged traditional beliefs and celebrated

individualism.

Major Romantic Poets & Their Works:

1. William Blake (1757-1827)

Visionary poet and artist who saw the world as filled with symbols and spiritual
meaning.
Advocated creativity over rigid reason, famously stating:

“I must create a system or be enslaved by another man’s.”

Notable Works: The Tyger – a powerful symbol of both creation and destruction.

2. William Wordsworth (1770-1850)

Focused on nature, common people, and emotions.

Defined poetry as:

“The spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings… taking its origin from emotion
recollected in tranquility.”

Notable Works:
Lyrical Ballads (with Coleridge)
I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud (Daffodils)
Ode to Duty
3. Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834)

Romantic poet and philosopher who believed poetry should be simple, sensuous,
and passionate.
Notable Work: The Rime of the Ancient Mariner – a supernatural sea voyage
exploring guilt and redemption
.
4. Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792-1822)

Idealistic and revolutionary, he believed in the power of love and beauty to

transform the world.

Declared: “Poetry makes immortal all that is best and most beautiful in the
world.”
Notable Works:
Ode to the West Wind
To a Skylark
Died tragically in a boating accident at age 29, with a volume of Keats’ poetry in
his pocket.

5. John Keats (1795-1821)

Unlike Shelley, Keats preferred quiet beauty and contemplation.

Believed: “A thing of beauty is a joy forever.”

Notable Works:
Ode on a Grecian Urn
Ode to a Nightingale

Suffered personal tragedies, including his brother’s death from tuberculosis,

which later claimed his own life at age 25.
 The Victorian Period (1832-1901)
Historical Background:

The Victorian era was marked by peace, economic growth, and social reform. The
British Empire expanded, and the Industrial Revolution transformed society,
creating new wealth but also significant challenges.

During Queen Victoria’s reign, serious problems emerged:

Economic depression and widespread unemployment

Famine in Ireland

Poor urban living conditions

Exploitation of child labor

As the century progressed, conditions improved:

Compulsory education increased literacy.

Laws protected workers, especially children.
Voting rights expanded for adult males.
The Victorians valued order, morality, and progress, believing that rational
organization would improve society. However, some writers questioned
materialism and doubted whether true progress was being made.

Characteristics of Victorian Literature:

Realism – focused on society, class struggles, and industrialization.

Social criticism – exposed the problems of rapid change.
Religious doubt – challenged by scientific advancements, especially Darwin’s
theory of evolution.
Rise of the novel – literature became a powerful tool for social commentary.
Major Victorian Writers & Their Works:

1. Alfred, Lord Tennyson (1809-1892)

Considered the greatest Victorian poet.

Themes: social reform, self-control, and reconciling science with faith.
Notable Work: In Memoriam A.H.H. – a series of philosophical poems exploring
grief, faith, and the search for meaning after his friend’s death.

2. Robert Browning (1812-1889) & Elizabeth Barrett Browning (1806-1861)

Famous for their romantic love story.

Robert admired Elizabeth’s poetry, and despite her father’s objections, they
married in secret and moved to Italy.
Notable Works:

Robert Browning: My Last Duchess – a dramatic monologue about power and

control.

Elizabeth Barrett Browning: Sonnets from the Portuguese – a collection of

love poems.

3. Charles Dickens (1812-1870)

The most famous novelist of the era, known for exposing social injustices.
His novels criticized child labor, poverty, and corruption.
Notable Works:

Oliver Twist – highlights the harsh realities of orphan life.

A Christmas Carol – promotes kindness and generosity.
Great Expectations – explores ambition and class struggles.
4. Thomas Hardy (1840-1928)

His novels reflected pessimism and criticism of rigid social norms.

Notable Works:

Tess of the d’Urbervilles – a tragic tale of fate and injustice.

Jude the Obscure – challenges social class barriers.

5. The Brontë Sisters (Charlotte & Emily Brontë)

Strong female voices in Victorian literature.

Notable Works:

Charlotte Brontë: Jane Eyre – an independent woman’s struggle for love and
respect.

Emily Brontë: Wuthering Heights – a passionate, dark romance.

6. Women Writers of the Era:

Jane Austen – Pride and Prejudice (though published earlier, her novels
influenced Victorian literature).

George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans) – Middlemarch – explores morality and society
.
Christina Rossetti & Elizabeth Barrett Browning – significant female poets.

Victorian Poetry & Innovation:

Gerard Manley Hopkins (1844-1889)

Developed sprung rhythm, imitating natural speech patterns.

His poetry focused on nature, faith, and personal struggles.
 The Modern Period (1900-1939)
The Modern Period was marked by political and social upheaval, including the decline of Britain’s global power and the
devastation of World War I. Thinkers like Darwin, Marx, and Freud challenged traditional beliefs, leading to
widespread disillusionment and skepticism.

Modern literature broke away from traditional forms, embracing experimentation, stream of consciousness, and themes
of alienation and psychological depth.

Key Writers & Works:

James Joyce (Ulysses, A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man) – pioneered stream of consciousness.

Virginia Woolf (Mrs. Dalloway, To the Lighthouse) – explored feminism and psychological depth.

T.S Eliot (The Waste Land) – reflected post-war disillusion

ment.
 D.H. Lawrence (Sons and Lovers, Lady Chatterley’s Lover) – explored human emotions
and sexuality.

William Faulkner (The Sound and the Fury) – used complex, nonlinear storytelling.

Ezra Pound (The Cantos) – promoted free verse and experimental poetry.

Samuel Beckett (Waiting for Godot) – introduced absurdist drama

The Postmodern/Contemporary
Period (1939–Present)
Key Characteristics:

Blends literary styles and challenges traditional modernist forms.

Explores political and social issues, including totalitarianism, capitalism, and class
struggles.

Uses satire, dystopian themes, and fragmented narratives to critique society.

Key Writers & Works:

George Orwell (1984, Animal Farm) – criticized totalitarianism and propaganda.

William Golding (Lord of the Flies) – explored human nature and power struggles.
Aldous Huxley (Brave New World) – warned of technological and political control.
Samuel Beckett (Waiting for Godot) – introduced absurdist drama.
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