Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which two parts of the passage explain why English scholars felt a dire need to set standards for the English language? (Select all that apply)
Which two parts of the passage explain why English scholars felt a dire need to set standards for the English language? (Select all that apply)
- There was no authority on the 'correct' way to use or spell words. (correct)
- Today, if you do not know how to spell a word, you look it up in the dictionary.
- According to some scholars, when poorly educated people read, wrote, and spoke, they corrupted the English language. (correct)
- One might think that proud English writers would welcome a broader readership.
How would you summarize neoclassical literature?
How would you summarize neoclassical literature?
Writers usually wrote prose that was precise, effortless, and witty.
Who was the last member of the Stuart line whose death left Britain without a clear successor?
Who was the last member of the Stuart line whose death left Britain without a clear successor?
Queen Anne
His poems often featured _____, rhyming couplets in iambic pentameter.
His poems often featured _____, rhyming couplets in iambic pentameter.
His _____ verses paved the way for the infamous wit of Alexander Pope.
His _____ verses paved the way for the infamous wit of Alexander Pope.
Which of these words would best describe the tone of 'Rule Britannia'?
Which of these words would best describe the tone of 'Rule Britannia'?
Flashcards
What was the need for establishing English language standards?
What was the need for establishing English language standards?
English scholars needed to establish clear rules for spelling and usage because there was no standard or authority to determine the correct way to use or spell words.
What are the characteristics of neoclassical literature?
What are the characteristics of neoclassical literature?
Neoclassical literature is characterized by its precise, effortless, and witty prose. It emphasizes clarity, reason, and order in writing.
Who was the last Stuart monarch and why was their death significant?
Who was the last Stuart monarch and why was their death significant?
Queen Anne, the last Stuart monarch, died without a clear heir, leaving Britain in a state of uncertainty about succession.
What are heroic couplets?
What are heroic couplets?
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What are satirical verses?
What are satirical verses?
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What is the tone of 'Rule Britannia'?
What is the tone of 'Rule Britannia'?
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Study Notes
English Language and Scholarly Standards
- English scholars expressed concern over the corruption of the language caused by poorly educated individuals.
- The lack of dictionaries during the early eighteenth century contributed to confusion over correct language use and spelling.
- There was no established authority to dictate proper usage or spelling in English.
Summary of Neoclassical Literature
- Neoclassical literature is characterized by precision, effortlessness, and wit in prose writing.
Historical Figure
- Queen Anne was the last member of the Stuart dynasty, whose passing left Britain without a clear successor.
John Dryden's Contributions
- Dryden's poetry captured the chaotic politics of the late seventeenth century, marking significant historical events.
- His notable poems include those commemorating Oliver Cromwell's death and celebrating Charles II's return.
- Dryden utilized heroic forms and satirical styles, influencing later writers, particularly Alexander Pope.
Tone of "Rule Britannia"
- The tone of "Rule Britannia" is best described as patriotic.
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