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Short History of English Literature

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English literature
- English Literature is divided into 4 Main Periods; Anglo-Saxon Literature, Medieval Literature, Renaissance Literature and Modern Literature

Old English Literature or Anglo-Saxon Literature
 Encompasses literature written in Old English in Anglo-Saxon England in the period after the settlement of the Saxons and other Germanic tribes in England after the withdrawal of the Romans and “ending soon after the Norman Conquest” in 1066.
 Is the term applied to the English speaking inhabitants of Britain from around the middle of the fifth century until the time of Norman Conquest, when Angelo-Saxon line of English kings came to an end.
 The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle has also proven significant for historical study, preserving a chronology of early English history.
 The lyric and epic poetry they wrote told of the hardships of survival and the importance of courage in performing heroic deeds.

English Literature during the Medieval Period
 Is a broad subject, encompassing essentially all written works available in Europe and beyond during the Middle Ages. The literature of this time was composed of religious writings as well as secular works. Just as in modern literature, it is a complex and rich field of study, from the utterly sacred to the exuberantly profane, touching all points in-between. Works of literature are often grouped by place of origin, language, and genre.
 Latin was the language of the Roman Catholic Church, which dominated Europe.
 The Church was the only source of education
 Latin was a common language for medieval writings.

Literature during the English Renaissance or the Elizabethan Period
 “Renaissance” means “Rebirth”, rebirth of interest in the Greek and Latin classics.
 This age was also the flowering of poetry and the golden age of drama.
 Queen Elizabeth, the most regal monarch at the age, was the key figure in influencing the life of her constituents. She was a great advocate of peace and order.
 This was considered as the most splendid in the history of English literature because of the immense vitality and richness that characterized literary works.
 Drama was the greatest form written during this age
 This period was also considered as the high age of aristocracy
 The most noted poet of the period was William Shakespeare

Modern Literature
 Literature of this period exemplifies the improved crafts of masters. The novel has flourished and writers have risen not only to popularity but to distinction as well.
 The emerging values of the modern times are embodied in the works of authors who defy the conventions of the old world.
 Science and technology became the basis for advancement. While Orthodox beliefs are considered standard criteria for excellence, the emerging needs for radical changes became the order of the day.

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