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Semester 2: BRITISH LITERATURE-I
British identity, Literary periods, Historical context
British identity, Literary periods, Historical context
British Identity
British identity is a complex and evolving concept shaped by various historical events, cultural influences, and socio-political factors. It encompasses a sense of belonging to the nation and is often expressed through literature, art, and music. Key aspects include multiculturalism, regional differences, and a sense of shared history.
Literary Periods
British literature can be divided into several distinct periods, including the Old English period, the Middle English period, the Renaissance, the Restoration, the Romantic period, the Victorian era, Modernism, and Postmodernism. Each period reflects the cultural and historical context of its time, contributing to the development of British literary tradition.
Historical Context
The historical context of British literature is critical to understanding its evolution. Major events such as the Norman Conquest, the Reformation, the Industrial Revolution, and the two World Wars have all influenced literary production and themes. Literature often reflects societal changes, struggles, and the complexities of British life.
Essays: Francis Bacon (Of Truth, Of Adversity), Addison & Steele (On Gratitude, On Giving Advice)
Essays by Francis Bacon and Addison & Steele
Explores the nature of truth, its importance, and the consequences of falsehood.
Truth as an essential quality of human life.
The relationship between truth and happiness.
Critique of deceit and the value of honesty.
Discusses the role of adversity in shaping character and human experience.
Adversity as a teacher of resilience.
The benefits and lessons derived from hardship.
Comparison of experiences with and without adversity.
Examines the importance of gratitude in human relationships and social interactions.
Gratitude as a component of social harmony.
The psychological benefits of expressing gratitude.
How gratitude influences moral conduct.
Reflects on the complexities of providing advice and the responsibilities it carries.
The impact of advice on personal choices.
Understanding the limitations of one's own judgment.
The balance between offering help and respecting autonomy.
Poetry: Robert Jamieson, Robert Burns, Anne Bradstreet, William Blake, Shelley, Wordsworth, Byron
Poetry: Robert Jamieson, Robert Burns, Anne Bradstreet, William Blake, Shelley, Wordsworth, Byron
Robert Jamieson
Contributed to Scottish poetry in the 18th century, known for works reflecting Scottish culture and language. His poetry often involved themes of nature and rustic life, using Scots dialect.
Robert Burns
Celebrated national poet of Scotland, known for works that embrace Scottish identity. His poems often feature themes of love, nature, and social justice. Famous for pieces like Auld Lang Syne and To a Mouse.
Anne Bradstreet
First published female poet in America, her work reflects Puritan beliefs and personal experiences. Major themes include love, family, and spirituality. Known for poems like The Tenth Muse.
William Blake
A key figure in Romantic poetry, known for his visionary works that combine visual art with poetry. His major collections include Songs of Innocence and of Experience, exploring themes of innocence, experience, and the human spirit.
Percy Bysshe Shelley
Prominent Romantic poet known for his radical ideas and passionate themes. Works often reflect his views on politics, nature, and love. Famous for pieces like Ozymandias and To a Skylark.
William Wordsworth
A central figure in Romanticism, known for his celebration of nature and the human experience. Often emphasized emotional authenticity and the beauty of the natural world. Notable works include Lines Composed a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey and I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud.
Lord Byron
A leading figure in the Romantic movement, known for his charismatic and controversial persona. His works often explore themes of love, adventure, and rebellion. Famous for works like Childe Harold's Pilgrimage and Don Juan.
Drama: Marlowe (Dr. Faustus), Goldsmith (She Stoops to Conquer)
Drama: Marlowe and Goldsmith
Christopher Marlowe
Marlowe was a prominent English playwright of the late 16th century. His works are characterized by the use of blank verse and a focus on tragic themes. Dr. Faustus is one of his most famous plays, exploring the consequences of ambition and the struggle between good and evil. Faustus, a scholar, makes a pact with the devil for knowledge and power, only to face dire consequences. The play raises questions about the limits of human knowledge and the nature of repentance.
Dr. Faustus
Dr. Faustus tells the story of a learned man who becomes dissatisfied with the limits of traditional knowledge. He turns to necromancy and makes a deal with the demon Mephistopheles. The play is structured in a way that examines the internal conflict of Faustus as he grapples with his decisions. Themes of power, betrayal, and the quest for meaning are central to its narrative. The tragic downfall of Faustus serves as a warning against overreaching ambition.
Oliver Goldsmith
Goldsmith was an Irish novelist and playwright, active in the 18th century. He is known for his comedic play She Stoops to Conquer, which reflects the societal norms and class structures of the time. Goldsmith's works often convey a moral message wrapped in humor and satire.
She Stoops to Conquer
This comedy centers around misunderstandings and mistaken identities. The plot focuses on the character of Kate Hardcastle, who pretends to be a simple barmaid to win the affection of the wealthy Charles Marlow. The play critiques social class and gender roles, emphasizing the importance of wit and cleverness. It employs comedic elements to address serious themes, ultimately promoting the idea of authenticity and genuine connections over social pretense.
Comparative Analysis
Both Marlowe and Goldsmith explore themes of ambition, identity, and societal expectations in their works. While Marlowe's Dr. Faustus portrays a tragic quest for knowledge, Goldsmith's She Stoops to Conquer provides a comedic perspective on social interactions. Each playwright reflects the ideals of their respective eras, with Marlowe focusing on the individual struggle against fate and Goldsmith highlighting the absurdities of social norms.
Prose and Novels: Mary Shelley (Frankenstein), Jonathan Swift (Gulliver’s Travels), Charles Dickens (A Tale of Two Cities)
Prose and Novels
Mary Shelley and Frankenstein
Jonathan Swift and Gulliver's Travels
Charles Dickens and A Tale of Two Cities
