SABLAYAN, JANAH KYLA O.

08/20/23

BSED ENGLISH 3A MC LIT 5

ACTIVITY 1: Make a research on the following topics. Be able to answer each

comprehensively.

A. Trace the history of English Literature. Be able to discuss the literary

achievements of each period.
a. Old English
- In early medieval England, from the 7th century to the decades after
the Norman Conquest of 1066—a time period that is frequently
referred to as Anglo-Saxon England—Poetry and prose written in Old
English were referred to as Old English literature. Manuscripts were
used to convey Old English literature, and many pieces of it have been
preserved in documents including the Exeter Book, Junius Manuscript,
and Nowell Codex. Beowulf, the oldest surviving Germanic epic and
the longest Old English poem, is one of this time period's most
important literary accomplishments. It was probably written between
700 and 750. Other outstanding examples of Old English poetry
include The Wanderer, The Seafarer, The Battle of Maldon, and The
Dream of the Rood.
b. Middle English
- Middle English literature, spanning the 11th to the late 15th century,
emerged as a transformative epoch following the shift from Old
English. The impact of the Norman Conquest in 1066, ushering in
Norman French influences, led to linguistic transformations. This era
birthed a diverse range of poetry, prose, and drama. A standout is
Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales," a collection weaving tales
mirroring medieval society. Within, themes of religion, courtly life, and
allegory gained prominence. Noteworthy romances like "Sir Gawain
 and the Green Knight" embodied chivalry and temptation,
interweaving Christian and pagan motifs. "Pearl," an allegorical
masterpiece, contemplated loss, redemption, and paradise. These
accomplishments mirrored the evolution of language and the rise of
intricate literary forms. Middle English literature mirrored shifting
societies, faith systems, and intellectual quests, bestowing invaluable
insights into collective and individual experiences of an age in flux.
c. 16th Century
- The 16th century in English literature was a dynamic period marked by
significant shifts in style, themes, and forms, as it transitioned from the
medieval to the Renaissance era. This transformation led to the
flourishing of various literary genres, introducing new perspectives and
ideas. Notable milestones include the Tudor Period, where
humanism's influence blended classical and English traditions, the
English Reformation's impact on religious writings and debates, and
the Elizabethan Era's golden age of literature, with iconic figures like
Shakespeare, Marlowe, and Jonson. Metaphysical poetry arose,
probing complex themes through intricate imagery, while English
prose gained prominence, thanks to Bacon's essays and exploration
narratives. The Renaissance's influence on themes and the advent of
the printing press facilitated wider literary dissemination, all of which
set the stage for the rich literary traditions that followed.
- The 16th century in English literature was a period of remarkable
achievements that laid the foundation for modern literary forms and
themes. Notable accomplishments of this era include William
Shakespeare's unparalleled contributions to drama with plays like
"Hamlet" and "Macbeth," the introduction of metaphysical poetry by
John Donne and others, Christopher Marlowe's daring plays like
"Doctor Faustus," the rise of English prose exemplified by Sir Francis
Bacon's incisive essays, the impact of the printing press on wider
literary accessibility, the popularity of Elizabethan sonnet sequences,
 the proliferation of religious and political pamphlets during the English
Reformation, and the exploration narratives of Sir Walter Raleigh and
others that shaped perceptions of the New World. These
achievements continue to resonate, shaping subsequent centuries'
literary creativity and influencing language and forms.
d. 17th Century
- The 17th century witnessed profound changes across history,
encompassing politics, religion, science, and literature. Notable events
include the Jacobean Era, the Gunpowder Plot, the English Civil War
with its conflicts between Royalists and Parliamentarians, the rise of
Oliver Cromwell and the Commonwealth, the Restoration of the
monarchy under Charles II, the Scientific Revolution with figures like
Galileo and Newton, Enlightenment philosophers like Locke and
Hobbes, influential literary contributions from metaphysical poets and
John Milton, the emergence of Restoration comedy, the Glorious
Revolution leading to William and Mary's reign, and continued colonial
expansion. This era was marked by intellectual, political, and cultural
shifts that laid the foundations for modern concepts and institutions.
- The 17th century witnessed significant achievements in English
literature, characterized by the emergence of new literary forms,
styles, and innovative ideas. Notable accomplishments encompassed
metaphysical poetry with intricate metaphors and exploration of
profound themes by poets like John Donne, George Herbert, and
Andrew Marvell. John Milton's monumental "Paradise Lost" delved
into creation, humanity's fall, and the nature of evil. Restoration
comedy, exemplified by playwrights like William Wycherley and
William Congreve, offered satirical commentary on societal norms.
Essay writing flourished, with Francis Bacon and Thomas Browne
delving into topics from politics to human nature. Enlightenment
philosophy, notably John Locke's "Two Treatises of Government,"
shaped political thought. The era's tumult led to religious and political
 pamphlets shaping public opinion. Samuel Pepys' diary provided a
vivid snapshot of daily life, while the Royal Society, founded in 1660,
fostered scientific innovation. Religious writings addressed upheavals,
and works like Aphra Behn's "Oroonoko" contributed to the nascent
novel form. These diverse achievements underscore the dynamic
nature of 17th-century English literature, laying the groundwork for
subsequent literary developments.
e. Victorian Era
- The Victorian era, spanning most of the 19th century (approximately
1837 to 1901), was characterized by profound social, political, and
cultural shifts in England. In the realm of literature, it witnessed the
emergence of diverse literary movements and a wide array of works
that mirrored the intricate dynamics of the era. Here's an overview of
the Victorian era's history in English literature:
- During the Early Victorian Period (1837-1860s):
Queen Victoria's Reign: The era's namesake, Queen Victoria,
ascended to the throne in 1837, profoundly influencing the era's
culture and values.
Industrialization and Social Change: England's rapid industrialization
brought significant societal and economic changes, sparking debates
on class, labor, and urbanization that writers frequently explored.
Realism and Social Critique: Authors embraced realism, depicting
everyday life and societal issues in their works. Charles Dickens,
renowned for novels like "Oliver Twist" and "David Copperfield," used
his writing to critique social injustices.
- In the Mid-Victorian Period (1860s-1880s):
Aestheticism and Decadence: As the century progressed,
aestheticism and the exploration of decadent themes gained
momentum. Figures like Oscar Wilde and Algernon Charles
Swinburne were central to this movement.
 Women's Writing: The mid-Victorian era witnessed increased female
participation in literature. Prominent female authors such as the Brontë
sisters and George Eliot made notable contributions.
Expansion of Literary Forms: Although the novel remained prominent,
other genres like poetry and the short story gained traction. The works
of Alfred Lord Tennyson and Thomas Hardy stand out.
- In the Late Victorian Period (1880s-1901):
 Aesthetic Movement: The late Victorian era saw the zenith of
the Aesthetic Movement, with artists and writers championing
beauty and "art for art's sake." Oscar Wilde's plays, including
"The Importance of Being Earnest," epitomize this movement.
 Scientific and Technological Advances: Scientific discoveries
and technological progress defined the era. H.G. Wells, a
pioneer of science fiction, penned works like "The Time
Machine" and "The War of the Worlds."
 Addressing Social and Moral Concerns: Literature often
grappled with moral dilemmas and psychological intricacies as
societal norms evolved. Robert Louis Stevenson's "Strange
Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde" exemplifies this exploration.
- Throughout the Victorian era, literature played a pivotal role in both
reflecting and shaping society. The multitude of styles, themes, and
genres produced during this period illustrates the intricate tapestry of
the era's social, cultural, and intellectual landscape. The literature of
the Victorian era continues to captivate scholars and enthusiasts alike,
offering a vivid portrayal of a rapidly changing world.
- The Victorian era in English literature was marked by remarkable
achievements, including the emergence of diverse literary movements,
the exploration of societal changes through realism, the rise of
influential women writers like the Brontë sisters and George Eliot, the
development of aestheticism and decadence in works by figures such
as Oscar Wilde, the expansion of literary forms like the novel and
 short story, and the engagement with evolving moral and
psychological complexities in literature, all of which collectively
showcased the era's rich tapestry of social, cultural, and intellectual
transformations.
B. Connect highlights of literary history to the SOCIAL, POLITICAL, and
INTELLECTUAL movements of the times.
- Each work provides a window into the intricate tapestry of their
respective eras, from 'Beowulf' in Old English literature, which
embodies the warrior ethos of early medieval societies, to Chaucer's
'Canterbury Tales,' which vividly reflects the diversity of classes and
professions in the Middle English period. Shakespeare's plays,
particularly those dealing with power dynamics and human nature in
the turbulent 16th century, portray the political and social intricacies of
the time. Milton's 'Paradise Lost' examines significant moral and
theological concerns in the context of the 17th century intellectual
atmosphere, whereas Dickens' books of the Victorian age,
campaigning for social reform, reflect the huge societal changes
brought about by industrialization and the fight for equality. These
literary works act as mirrors, reflecting the socioeconomic structures,
inequities, and transformations that define their historical moments,
demonstrating the significance of literature in commemorating the
many elements of human experience.
C. Give examples of important works of English literature.
- Ancient and Medieval Literature:
 "Beowulf" (8th-11th centuries): An epic poem that is one of the
earliest and most important works of English literature, portraying
heroic deeds and themes of honor, loyalty, and fate.
 "The Canterbury Tales" by Geoffrey Chaucer (14th century): A
collection of stories told by pilgrims on their way to Canterbury,
offering a vivid snapshot of medieval society and showcasing
Chaucer's wit and storytelling prowess.
- Renaissance Literature:
 "Hamlet" by William Shakespeare (c. 1600): A tragedy that
explores themes of revenge, madness, and moral dilemmas,
considered one of Shakespeare's most iconic plays.
 "Paradise Lost" by John Milton (1667): An epic poem that
retells the biblical story of the fall of man, delving into themes of
free will, temptation, and the nature of evil.
- Enlightenment Literature:
 "Robinson Crusoe" by Daniel Defoe (1719): Often regarded as
one of the first novels, it tells the story of a castaway's survival
on a deserted island, touching on themes of self-reliance and
human resilience.
 "Gulliver's Travels" by Jonathan Swift (1726): A satirical work
that uses the adventures of Lemuel Gulliver to critique society,
politics, and human nature.
- Victorian Literature:
 "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë (1847): A novel that follows the life
of an orphaned governess, touching on themes of social class,
gender, and morality, while also portraying a strong, independent
female protagonist.
 "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens (1860): A bildungsroman
that traces the life of Pip, exploring themes of ambition, identity,
and the impact of social circumstances.
- Modern and Contemporary Literature:
 "1984" by George Orwell (1949): A dystopian novel that paints
a bleak vision of a totalitarian future, reflecting on themes of
surveillance, propaganda, and the power of language.
 "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee (1960): A novel set in the
American South during the 1930s, addressing themes of racial
injustice, moral growth, and the loss of innocence.
- Postmodern Literature:
 "One Hundred Years of Solitude" by Gabriel García Márquez
(1967): A landmark work of magical realism that weaves a
multigenerational tale of the Buendía family, blending reality
and fantasy.
 "Beloved" by Toni Morrison (1987): A novel that confronts the
legacy of slavery and its impact on African American identity,
using a mix of historical fiction and ghostly elements.