English Literary History  Review & The Enlightenment

Review of what we’ve learned so far… Classical Antiquity (Greek/Roman): Epic poems like Odyssey Drama Philosophy (Socrates, Plato, etc.) Medieval: Faith-based literature in Europe Epic poetry continued, like Beowulf, Inferno, Canterbury Tales Passion/mystery plays teach moral lessons to common people

What We’ve Learned Contd. Renaissance: First printing press made literature accessible Major political changes in England & Europe “Rediscovery” of classical learning; “learning for learning's sake” Plays for entertainment (as opposed to religious enlightenment) returned to Europe's stages (Shakespeare’s Hamlet)

History of English Language OLD ENGLISH 400-1066 Beowulf Middle English 1066-1485 Chaucer Early Modern English 1485-1800 Shakespeare Modern English 1800-present Austen

The Enlightenment (1700-1800) A union of philosophies and actions throughout Western Europe, England, and the American colonies Exaltation of scientific rationalism, exemplified by the scientific method Similar to Renaissance, thinkers were interested in the progress of humankind Better chances of upward social mobility Cultural institutions criticized, many religious-based; in general criticism became culturally acceptable

The Enlightenment Contd. Political ideas associated with freedom and democracy began to form “Egalitarianism” was the buzzword Grassroots political movements began; men met in local cafes, read literature, and discussed philosophies (Important note: only white males) Responsible for creation of America Prompted the beginning of the Industrial Revolution French Revolution considered its end

The Enlightenment: Literature Themes: Social upheaval Reversals of personal status Political satire Geographical exploration Comparison between the supposed natural state of man and the supposed civilized state of man