Literary history from the 18th century
The 18th century Optimistic period – every human can become a good happy citizen Ideas arose in England – developed further in France Literature as education – you must learn from it! Earlier you read aloud – now you can read at home! Books were destroyed and writers captured for their ideas (Voltaire, Defoe)
Important persons: Isaac Newton – gravitations/sound experiment. Showed that YOUR thinking can reveal the secrets of the Universe! John Locke – philosopher. Wanted people’s government and religious tolerance. ”There are fundamental human rights!” Daniel Defoe ( ) ”Robinson Crusoe” 1719 Motive: What can a person achieve with two empty hands?”
The Romantic era Feelings more important than science Fascination of the exotic, the past, the future – everything besides here and now! Longing for something BIG and MEANINGFUL! Reaction against the industrialism Poetry, music, religion and nature would lead to a better world!
Readers wanted experiences: -monsters -wolves -incest -murders -insanity etc.
A couple of important writers Mary Shelley ”Frankenstein’s monster” Edgar Allan Poe ”The Raven” William Wordsworth ”The Rainbow” The Rainbow My heart leaps up when I behold A rainbow in the sky: So was it when my life began; So is it now I am a man; So be it when I shall grow old, Or let me die! The Child is father of the Man I could wish my days to be Bound each to each by natural piety.
Discussion What do you think about writers and artists? Are they different? Do you believe i geniuses? Is it important that the literature you read or the music you listen to is original? The interest in history is big today, just as during the Romantic period. Historic novels are popular at book stores. How come? Have you strengthen your inner by the help of natural experiences? Some one said that the Nature is the Swedish religion. Do you agree?
The 19th century Growing audience – mass produced novel Translated literature more common The industrial revolution – quick development, quick money! New inventions every day: -telephone, electricity, transportations etc. Female writers more common Children have rights – child labour is abolished in the West, education is improved
Charles Dickens ( ) To discuss after reading Oliver Twist: 1.What is a realistic text? 2.An author who writes realistically problably has a certain intention. Which, do you think? 3.A child’s life in the 19th century England is described. What’s it like today? 4.Is our modern society more merciful? 5.Are there ”Oliver-figures” among us today? 6.What is better/worse if you compare Dickens’ society with our modern society?
The turn of the century ( ) A school for everybody (event he poorest ones) More equal between men/women Women keep fighting for the right to vote Paperback books are spread widely Foreign literature are found in the libraries Public readings at hospitals, schools etc. Writers are hired for film, theatre, radio, TV etc.
Not only positive about the future… Economic growth can lead to shallow materialistic values People show a nice facade – dishonesty/immorality are hidden agendas A pessimistic society is created Why would this new century be different from the other ones with evil-minded people? The pessimists are right! The world wars break out!
Words Everyday we are surrounded by words spoken/written Functions of language: Information, create contact, express feelings, influence, learn-develop-think etc. The power of the word: The power to influence the democracy is based on the knowledge of words!
To discuss.. A Swedish writer, Strindberg, claimed ”language is power”. Is he right? Look for examples in society. Are there children who are at risk of becoming linguistically handicapped? What can society do to prevent this? Writers are afraid language might be a class distinction. What do you think? Have YOU ever felt linguistically ”outside”? A Swedish writer, Strindberg, claimed ”language is power”. Is he right? Look for examples in society. Are there children who are at risk of becoming linguistically handicapped? What can society do to prevent this? Writers are afraid language might be a class distinction. What do you think? Have YOU ever felt linguistically ”outside”?