An Overview of English Literature PDF

An Overview of English Literature What is English Literature? =========================== - English literature reflects the history, culture, and values of England, written in the **English** language, which is widely used throughout the world. The Evolving *EXPERIENCE* of English Liter...

An Overview of English Literature What is English Literature? =========================== - English literature reflects the history, culture, and values of England, written in the **English** language, which is widely used throughout the world. The Evolving *EXPERIENCE* of English Literature - English literature has evolved over time, with each period offering a unique **experience** for readers. Whether it's the epic of *Beowulf* or the modernist experiments of Virginia Woolf, the richness of the English literary tradition is vast. *EXCITEMENT* in English Literary Movements - Each literary movement, from the Renaissance to Modernism, brings its own **excitement** and energy to English literature, influencing the themes and styles that shape the works. Famous English Writers ====================== - Iconic writers like Shakespeare, Dickens, and Woolf have produced works that continue to capture the **eyes** and hearts of readers around the world. *EXERCISE* Your Imagination Through English Genres - From drama to novels, English literature provides an excellent mental **exercise** for readers, challenging their perspectives and expanding their imagination. *ENLARGE* Your Understanding of English Literature - By exploring English literature, we **enlarge** our understanding of human experiences across time and cultures, finding **excitement** in every era. American Literature - American literature generally refers to literature or works written in the United States or by American Authors. It emerged later than English Literature. It often deals with themes like the American Dream, freedom, and the nation's history, from early colonial writings to modern works by authors like Mark Twain, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Toni Morrison. Pre-Colonization - This refers to the stories and oral traditions of Native American cultures before Europeans arrived. These included myths, legends, and songs that explained their beliefs and way of life. - One example of mythology or literature in this period is the Iroquois Creation Myth. The Iroquois Creation Myth describes how the world was formed. Sky Woman falls from the sky world to a watery earth, where animals help her create land on the back of a turtle. She has a daughter, who later gives birth to twin sons---one good and one evil. The good twin creates the natural world, while the evil twin introduces harmful elements. The good twin ultimately wins, bringing balance to creation. The Colonial and Early National Period (17th century to 1830) ============================================================= - This period includes writings from early settlers, which are Europeans, often about their struggles in the New World. Their literature was often focused on religious beliefs, survival, and life. - For instance, Puritan writers like Anne Bradstreet wrote poetry that reflected their strong religious faith and her poem\'s about life in the colonies. The Romantic Period (1830-1870) =============================== - During this time, writers began to focus more on emotion, imagination, and the beauty of nature. They valued intuition over reason and often explored the individual\'s inner world. - Writers like Edgar Allan Poe delved into the mysterious and supernatural in works like The Tell-Tale Heart. Realism and Naturalism (1870-1910) ================================== - After the Civil War, writers turned away from the idealism of Romanticism and focused on realistic depictions of everyday life. Realist authors like Mark Twain wrote about common people and the world around them without romanticizing it. - The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a key example, showing the life of a boy traveling down the Mississippi River with an escaped enslaved named Jim. Naturalist writers went further, suggesting that people\'s lives were shaped by their environment and circumstances, often beyond their control. The Modernist Period (1910-1945) ================================ - Modernist writers experimented with new forms and techniques, breaking away from traditional narratives. They often explored themes feeling disconnected from society, losing faith in old beliefs, and presenting life as fragmented and chaotic. - For instance, F. Scott Fitzgerald\'s The Great Gatsby critiques the American Dream through its portrayal of wealth and moral decay in the 1920s. The Contemporary Period (1945-Present) ====================================== - After World War II, American literature expanded to include variety of voices and perspectives. The social changes of the mid-20th century, including the Civil Rights Movement, feminist movements, and immigration, influenced many writers. The literature became more diverse, addressing issues like race, identity, gender, and politics. - Toni Morrison, whose novel Beloved explores the legacy of slavery. J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye reflects the struggles of a disillusioned teenager in post-war America. Conclusion ========== - In conclusion, american literature has evolved significantly over time, with each period reflecting the changing values, social conditions, and historical events of its era. From the oral traditions of Native American cultures and the early religious writings of settlers to the emotionally rich Romanticism. The Contemporary Period highlights this ongoing evolution, showcasing a diverse array of voices and themes. The Story of Beowulf Who is Beowulf? Beowulf is a heroic poem, considered the highest achievement of Old English literature and the earliest European vernacular epic. It deals with events of the early 6th century CE and is believed to have been composed between 700 and 750. Although originally untitled, it was later named after the Scandinavian hero Beowulf, whose exploits and character provide its connecting theme. Beowulf takes place in early 6th-century Scandinavia, primarily in what is known today as Denmark and Sweden. The author of Beowulf is unknown. It is possible that the poem was composed by and transmitted between several different poets before it was preserved in a single manuscript that dates to about 1000. Beowulf Characters Beowulf- the courageous and heroic Geatish warrior who quests to aid others and defeat monsters. Hrothgar- the wise and respected danish king of Heorot, who seeks Beowulf\'s assistance in defeating the monster Grendel. Wiglaf- a loyal Geatish warrior who stands by Beowulf\'s side in battle, displaying bravery and loyalty. Unferth- a Danish warrior known for his skepticism of Beowulf\'s abilities, later becoming an admirer and ally. Ecgtheow- Beowulf\'s father, are renowned warrior whose legacy influences Beowulf\'s heroic deeds. Grendel- the fearsome and monstrous antagonist who terrorizes the Danes by attacking Heorot and its inhabitants. Grendel\'s Mother- a mysterious and formidable creature who seeks revenge for her son\'s death at the hands of Beowulf. The Dragon- the powerful and destructive final adversary faced by Beowulf, symbolizing the ultimate challenge of mortality and fate. Exposition: The Tale starts by introducing The environment is at Denmark where King Hrothgar reigns. He has constructed the great mead hall Heorot where his warriors convene to revel. And yet, the territory is in turmoil and a beast called Grendel roams round punishing. Grendel has killed Hrothgar\'s men every night, for years, and no matter what anyone does---nobody can kill him. Beowulf, a hero from Geatland hears of this terror and is likeI must go aid Hrothgar for his people. Rising Action: Beowulf sails to Denmark with his men to defeat Grendel. Getting of Hrothgar He is received by Hrothgar and according to his nature, a celebration is orchestrated for him. He brags of past successes and promises to kill Grendel unarmed, bare handed. That night, while Beowulf and his men are sleeping in Heorot, Grendel again one more time attacks the hall. In a mighty battle, Beowulf then tears off Grendel\'s arm, wounding him mortally. Climax: The exciting moment happens while the mother of Grendel, who is hunting revenge from her son\'s death, comes raiding Heorot to kill a warrior of Hrothgar. Beowulf tries his luck too. He enters her base underwater and unleashes a brutal fight against the monster. Beowulf has a sword that is not able to do it, but he discovers an enormous sword in the lair and uses this to kill Grendel\'s mother. At this point Beowulf have fully prepared for his heroic journey. Falling Action: Upon the defeat of Grendel and Grendel\'s mother, Hrothgar rewards Beowulf with great wealth and he returns to Geatland, eventually becoming king. You grow old, and you rule peacefully for a long time. Yet the now ancient Beowulf is faced with his final challenge: a dragon that threatens his land. Realizing the battle itself could be his last, Beowulf nevertheless leads a charge to take on the dragon flanked by some of his soldiers --- only one, Wiglaf, remains behind to help. Resolution: He kills the dragon, but is fatally injured. Following the battle, Beowulf succumbs to his injuries and Wiglaf laments the death of his king. Beowulf is interred in a barrow with an impressive mound in his honor. They respect him, even if they wonder what life without their grand leader might hold. Moral of the Story Especially seen through the characters of Beowulf and Wiglaf, the poem Beowulf illustrates three important morals of its time: bravery, honor, and loyalty. Never lose hope; victory is our destiny. We should emulate the overpowering positive attitude of Beowulf. It is better to die young with heroism and virtue than to grow to a ripe old age being cowardly and avoiding your responsibilities. Beowulf shows great courage and fortitude as he protects the community by fighting Grendel, Grendel\'s mother, and the dragon Old English Literature ====================== England before the Anglo Saxon Period ===================================== The Celtics and Gaelic Tribes ============================= - The Gaelic and Celtic tribes or the Celts lived in England as early as 1000 B.C. - While the Gaeles spoke Gaelic, the Celts spoke Common Brittonic language and practiced ancient Celtic religion supervised by the druids. - The Celtic tribes imbibed and practiced Roman culture despite the obvious political resistance. Romans too were devoted to England. - Afterall, England was an extremely rich and arable land. Arrival and Fall of the Roman Empire in England (43 CE- 410 CE) Arrival of the Roman Empire =========================================================================================== - The Romans arrived in England with King Claudius and ruled the country for about 400 years. - It was in the year 43 CE that the Romans invaded and conquered most of England under the leadership of King Claudius. This Roman Empire lasted till the year 410 CE. - During this time, England was named Britannia after the Celtic-speaking Britons. Under the Roman empire, England developed roads, towns, and striking forts and walls. Romans also introduced England to foods and fruits such as pear, peas, apples, etc. - On top of everything, the geographical location of England made any attacks and invasions difficult, making it relatively easier for the Romans to maintain their empir The Fall of the Roman Empire ============================ - The Anglo Saxon began after the Romans retreated from England in 410 CE. - The Roman Empire was one of the largest empires in the ancient world that included Spain, France, Germany, Britain, parts of North Africa and Western Asia as well. Undoubtedly, it also became extremely difficult to protect, defend, and rule. - In the year 285 CE, the Roman Emperor Diocletian split the vast Roman Empire into two manageable regions: - The Eastern Roman Empire that included regions such as Egypt, Cyprus, Turkey, Israel, etc. Constantinople (present day Istanbul) was the capital of Eastern Roman Empire. - The Western Roman Empire included France, Britain, Germany, Italy, etc. Rome was its capital. The Dark Age in England (410 CE - 1066 CE) ========================================== - The years after the Romans left England are also known as the Dark Ages. This is majorly due to the absence of any substantial historical record for this time. - Nevertheless, it was a crucial period where a new English identity and language emerged. - As soon as the Romans retreated from Britain, all the tribes they had repressed and controlled began to raid and attack the island. - These invaders were Irish from the West, Picts from the North, and the Germanic tribes (Angles, Saxons, and Jutes) from the East. By the year 500 CE, the Anglo-Saxons had invaded most parts of Britain. Therefore, the time period from 410 CE to 1066 CE is known as the Anglo Saxon period. The Anglo-Saxon Period ====================== Society and Religion in the Anglo Saxon Period ============================================== - The Anglo Saxons practiced paganism and worshipped multiple deities such as Norse, Woden, Thunor, etc. - The Anglo Saxon society was a rich society where loyalty was the single most important virtue. - Marriages used to be political and practical affairs. Women in the Anglo-Saxon period held an integral position and were considered the weavers of both cloth and society. They enjoyed hereditary rights to property and even owned kingdoms. Christianization of Anglo-Saxon England (597 C.E approximately) =============================================================== - Christianization of the pagan Anglo Saxon society began during the 6th century. - It was in 597 C.E that Augustine was sent by Pope Gregory to lead the mission of christianization in the south of England and became the first archbishop of Canterbury. - On the other hand, the Celtic monks christianized northern England and Scotland. Christianization of England during the Anglo Saxon period had the following consequences: - There had been no books before Christianity. Books were written because the written word was significant to the Church and the services relied upon the reading of the Holy Scriptures. Therefore, the written word was introduced to the otherwise oral tradition of the Anglo Saxons. - The Runic alphabets of the Germanic tribes gradually replaced the Roman alphabets. - Majority of the written literature was in Latin as it was the language of the Roman Church. - Anglo-Saxon England gained presence and visibility in mainstream Western European culture due to Latin. Invasion by the Vikings and King Alfred (793 CE) ================================================ - The Vikings raided and attacked England in the year 793 CE of the Anglo Saxon period. Interestingly, they only raided and attacked monasteries as they were guarded by unarmed monks and were vulnerable but rich targets. During this time all the monasteries and libraries housing rich Anglo Saxon literature got destroyed. - Massive amount of Anglo Saxon literature was destroyed by fire. King Alfred (848 CE - 899 CE) ============================= - All the damage incurred during the raids and attacks of the Vikings began to got restored during the reign of King Alfred from 848 CE to 899 CE. During this time of the Anglo Saxon period, monasteries were revived and English learning was encouraged. All the four volumes of Old English verses belong to this period. These four volumes are: - The Junius Manuscript ===================== - It contains four poems- Genesis, Exodus, Daniel, and Christ and Satan. - The MS Cotton Vitellius ======================= - Beowulf, Judith, and three works in prose- The Life of Saint Christopher, Wonders of the East, and Letters of Alexander to Aristotle. - The Vercelli Book ================= - Andreas, The Fates of the Apostles, Address of the Soul to the Body, The Dream of the Rood, and Elene. - The Exeter Book =============== - Christ, Juliana, The Wanderer, The Seafarer, Widsith, Deor, and many other shorter poems. Anglo Saxon Period in English Literature or Old English literature Characteristics of Anglo Saxon poetry and prose: =================================================================================================================== - Anglo Saxon literature is dominated by either **heroic or epic poetry** written in alliterative verses, or religious poetry with heroic elements in it. - While prose did not exist until the reign of King Alfred, Anglo Saxon heroic and religious poetry were prevalent in the period - The Anglo Saxon heroic poetry gives the readers an insight to the pagan world and culture of the Germanic tribes. - As mentioned above, England was Christianized by the 7th century. In that process, a lot of Anglo Saxon poetry was preserved and written by the monks and many of the pagan elements in the poem were modified or censored. - The epic or heroic poetry of the Anglo Saxon period emphasizes on the values of tribal communities, and considers loyalty between lord and liegeman as one of the most important virtues. It glorifies individual heroism and highlights the significance of fate in a human\'s life. - It is mostly composed in alliterative verses and is a product of an oral tradition. All Anglo Saxon poetry was meant to be orally recited by a scop or an itinerant minstrel who visited the courts of Kings or often served one master. Anglo-Saxon Herioc Poetry ========================= - Widsith - Beowulf - Deor - Battle of Maldon - The Battle of Brunanburh - Waldhere Anglo Saxon Religious or Christian Poetry ========================================= - By the eighth century, the elements of Anglo Saxon heroic poetry were applied to religious verses. - There was a significant transition where the Anglo Saxons left behind the pagan elements and embraced Christianity. The subject of their verses shifted from pagan heroes and heroic themes to Latin Christianity. - Most of the religious poetry in the Anglo Saxon period was composed in Northumbria (northern England). - Religious poetry in Old English literature is inspired from Latin and gives an English treatment to themes that were common throughout Christian Europe. List of Anglo-Saxon Poetry ========================== **List of Anglo-Saxon Prose** **LORD RANDAL** - The anonymous poet of this version of *'Lord Randall*' makes use of repetition throughout the piece. - The piece has four sets of lines called quatrains. - The rhyme scheme is: AABB - It is strophic in form. Brief History of Scottish Ballad ================================ **Topic: The Wife's Lament** ABOUT THE AUTHOR ================ - \"The Wife\'s Lament\" or \"The Wife\'s Complaint\" is an Old English poem of 53 lines found on folio 115 of the Exeter Book and generally treated as an elegy in the manner of the German frauen lied, or \"women\'s song\". This poem believed that was composed by a woman. - Unfortunately, nothing is known about these first great women poets, not even their names. ABOUT THE SELECTION =================== - This lyrical poem expresses the grief over the loss of the speaker's family, of her homeland, and of her husband and friend. - Lyric A short, highly musical poem that tells the emotions of the speaker. - Elegy A kind of lyric that expresses grief over the loss of something. THEMES OF THE POEM ================== - **Sorrow and Loss:** The poem centers around the speaker\'s profound grief over her husband\'s absence. This absence, though never explicitly explained, is clearly a source of immense pain and sorrow for her. - **Loneliness and Exile:** The speaker is physically and emotionally isolated. She describes herself as an \"exiled retainer,\" highlighting her sense of displacement and lack of connection. This isolation intensifies her sorrow and amplifies her sense of loss. - **Love and Betrayal:** The poem suggests the possibility of betrayal, perhaps by the husband or by those who have separated them. The speaker\'s lament is fueled by a deep sense of longing and the pain of a love that has been broken. - **Unfulfilled Expectations:** The poem hints at a sense of unfulfilled expectations, both in terms of love and societal roles. The speaker may have been promised a life of happiness and stability, only to find herself in a desolate and lonely situation - ***Gender and Societal Constraints:*** The poem reflects the limited agency and power women often held in Anglo-Saxon society. The speaker is depicted as a victim of circumstance, unable to control her fate or reclaim her happiness. - The English that was used from 1100 to 1500 is called Middle English. - The Norman conquest of England in 1066 traditionally signifies the beginning of 200 years of the domination of French in English letters. Old English literary contains: political, and ecclesiastical documents. - This "middle English literature" corresponds to the Medieval period. - It is divided into 4 general edges: - The Early Period - The 13th century - The 14th Century - The 15th Century Anglo-Norman Period ------------------- - Important period in English Literature - Norman French brought the French Language - FRENCH = French rulers and the upper class. - OLD ENGLISH = Common people French words were being added to English. - Anglo-Norman society had Feudal system. - In which rich people had power and influence. BACKGROUND PROFILE Name: Geoffrey Chaucer Birth Year: 1343 Best Known For: English poet "The Father of English Literature" Death date: October 25, 1400 Death City: London Early LifE Chaucer's family was of the bourgeois class, descended from an affluent family who made their money in the London wine trade. Geoffrey Chaucer is believed to have attended the St. Paul's Cathedral School, where he probably first became acquainted with the influential writing of Virgil and Ovid. In 1357, Chaucer became a public servant to Countess Elizabeth of Ulster, the Duke of Clarence's wife, for which he was paid a small stipend---enough to pay for his food and clothing. Philippa Roet Geoffrey Chaucer was commissioned to work as a page in Elizabeth\'s household in 1357, where Philippa was already working as a domicella, caring for her infant daughter, Philippa of Eltham. This is where they are believed to have met; Philippa was around 10 years old at the time and Chaucer was said to be around 12.After Elizabeth\'s death, both were sent to work for the queen. Their marriage might have been arranged by Queen Philippa herself in September 1366. It was apparently tradition for domicellas and esquire who worked in the same household to marry..Geoffrey and Philippa Chaucer had four children. The oldest son, Thomas, is the most well-known, as he was Speaker of the House of Commons. They also had a daughter, Elizabeth who was a nun. He's daughter named Agnes and a son named Lewis. Public Service From 1370 to 1373, he went abroad again and fulfilled diplomatic missions in Florence and Genoa. By 1368, King Edward III had made Chaucer one of his esquires. When the queen died in 1369, it served to strengthen Philippa's position and subsequently Chaucer's as well. In 1377 and 1388, Chaucer engaged in yet more diplomatic missions, with the objectives of finding a French wife for Richard II and securing military aid in Italy. In 1385 he petitioned for temporary leave. For the next four years he lived in Kent but worked as a justice of the peace and later a Parliament member, rather than focusing on his writing. When Philippa passed away in 1387, Chaucer stopped sharing in her royal annuities and suffered financial hardship. He needed to keep working in public service to earn a living and pay off his growing accumulation of debt. Chaucer\'s Writing Style Vivid and realistic yet easy and informal The canterbury tales is often referred to as the first collection of short stories in english literature, these stories , unlike the modern short story are written in poerty rather than in prose. Major Works: \'The Canterbury Tales\' Discussion: "The Canterybury Tales" by Geoffrey Chaucer ======================================================= - The Canterbury tale is written in a frame narrative. - The themes were morality and human struggles. - Sexual and Explicit "The Knight" ============ "The Miller's Tale" =================== "The Reeve's Tale"