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Questions and Answers
Who is attributed with the first recognizable prose in English?
Who is attributed with the first recognizable prose in English?
- Alfred (correct)
- Geoffrey Chaucer
- William Caxton
- Sir John Mandeville
Which period followed the Anglo-Saxon period?
Which period followed the Anglo-Saxon period?
- The Victorian period
- The Anglo-Norman period (correct)
- The Renaissance
- The Elizabethan period
What major event helped increase the number of writers and readers?
What major event helped increase the number of writers and readers?
- The Reformation of the church
- The invention of the printing press (correct)
- The invention of the compass
- The emergence of Romanticism
During which centuries did English prose see significant improvements?
During which centuries did English prose see significant improvements?
Which of the following authors contributed significantly to the development of English prose?
Which of the following authors contributed significantly to the development of English prose?
What was a challenge presented by the renewed interest in classical writings during the Renaissance?
What was a challenge presented by the renewed interest in classical writings during the Renaissance?
Which work is associated with William Caxton?
Which work is associated with William Caxton?
What effect did the Reformation have on English prose?
What effect did the Reformation have on English prose?
Who is credited with the earliest known English prose?
Who is credited with the earliest known English prose?
Which period followed the Anglo-Saxon period in the development of English prose?
Which period followed the Anglo-Saxon period in the development of English prose?
What characterized the prose development during the fifteenth century?
What characterized the prose development during the fifteenth century?
What challenge did the Renaissance pose for English prose?
What challenge did the Renaissance pose for English prose?
What was a significant factor in increasing the reach of literature in the late 15th century?
What was a significant factor in increasing the reach of literature in the late 15th century?
What pivotal figure in the printing revolution is mentioned in the context of English prose development?
What pivotal figure in the printing revolution is mentioned in the context of English prose development?
Which movement boosted the production of English prose works and scriptures during the Renaissance?
Which movement boosted the production of English prose works and scriptures during the Renaissance?
What was one notable impact of translations during the development of English prose?
What was one notable impact of translations during the development of English prose?
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Study Notes
Early English Prose
- The earliest known English prose was written by King Alfred the Great, a significant figure from the Anglo-Saxon period.
- Following this period, the Anglo-Norman period emerged, with notable works like the "Ancrene Riwle", also known as "Rule of the Anchoresses".
- The 12th and 13th centuries were transitional periods, with English gradually replacing Latin and French influence.
The Fifteenth Century
- This period witnessed a marked improvement in English prose with authors like Sir Thomas Malory and Lord Berners standing out.
- Writers were consciously trying to establish a distinct English prose style, reflecting influence from earlier writers such as Geoffrey Chaucer and John Wycliffe.
- English prose thrived in various fields, including law, politics, and theology.
The Renaissance
- The Renaissance sparked a renewed interest in Greek and Roman literature throughout Europe.
- The influx of classical literature presented a dilemma for English prose writers, trying to maintain their identity while embracing classical styles and concepts.
- The use of classical allusions became increasingly common but also raised concerns about compromising the unique character of English prose.
The Invention of Printing
- The invention of movable type printing in 1477 by Johannes Gutenberg was a significant event.
- Printing significantly impacted society and literature, expanding the number of readers and writers.
- The first book printed in England by William Caxton in 1477 marked a turning point in English literature.
- The Reformation further promoted the development of English prose, encouraging the production of works and scriptures in English.
Summary
- The development of English prose coincides with broader societal and intellectual transformations.
- The convergence of influences from other languages and the emergence of a distinct English prose style played a crucial role in shaping English literature.
- The printing press became a catalyst in expanding the reach of literature and influencing the growth of English prose.
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