British Literature, Terms

Christian Epic

Long poetic heroic story referencing/circling christianity

Blazon

Poetic hype-up to a man’s lady love (typically) going down the list of her physical attributes

Epic Simile

Grand, one-off, extensive similes (Lucifer is like this, like that, etc. → Leviathan is like this, like this, etc.)

Epic Catalogue

A lengthy list or enumeration of heroes, warriors, or people often found in epic poetry, detailing their important attributes or deeds.

Epic

This text is big enough and detailed enough to give you the ENTIRE picture

Interregnum

A period between reigns or governments, notably in British history between the reign of Charles I and the restoration of Charles II.

Sonnet

A 14-line poem with a specific rhyme scheme and meter, often exploring themes of love or nature. Contains a Volta

Blank Verse

Unrhymed iambic pentameter often used in English dramatic and narrative poetry.

Lyric

A type of short poem expressing personal emotions or thoughts, often written in the first person. Lyric poetry can encompass a variety of subjects including love, nature, and introspection. Meant to be sung originally. Formal and structured.

Catholic

Typically depicted as corrupt, split w/ kingdom under Henry the 8th when he didn’t like answering to the catholic church. The Church of Rome that governed religious practices in England before the Reformation, leading to the establishment of the Church of England.

Protestant

A branch of Christianity that emerged in the 16th century as a reform movement against the practices of the Catholic Church, emphasizing individual faith and the authority of Scripture. Typically Good Guys in BL

Scientific Revolution

A period of significant advancements in scientific thought during the 16th and 17th centuries, characterized by the emergence of modern science and the questioning of traditional beliefs. (Reason, Logic, Observation)

Restoration

The period in England following the collapse of the Commonwealth, marked by the return of Charles II to the throne in 1660 and the revival of the monarchy and traditional practices.

Tribe of Ben

A group of 17th-century English poets associated with the court of Charles II, known for their wit, elegance, and adherence to traditional forms of poetry. Fanboys of Ben Jonson.

Renaissance

“Revival” of art & literature in England & parts of continental Europe.

Allegory

A literary device that acts as a comparison made using symbolism and narrative, where characters and events embody deeper meanings and moral lessons.

Renaissance Humanism

An intellectual movement during the Renaissance that emphasized the study of classical texts, the value of human beings, and the potential for individual achievement.

Tudors

a royal dynasty that ruled England from the late 15th century to the early 17th century, known for its significant influence on English history, including the reigns of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I.

Stuarts

a royal dynasty that succeeded the Tudors in England, known for significant events such as the English Civil War and the restoration of the monarchy. (Charles I-II, James I)

Conceit

An extended metaphor (i.e The Flea)

Cavalier Poet

Originally a supporter of the crown of England, also includes supporters of Ben Jonson

Metaphysical Poet

Believed the goal of poetry was to “demonstrate knowledge” (Uppity pricks) John Donne

Elizabethan Comedy

A type of humorous play popular during the Elizabethan era, characterized by romantic plots, mistaken identities, and often optimistic resolutions.

Elizabethan Tragedy

A form of drama prevalent during the Elizabethan era, focusing on serious themes and often featuring noble characters facing tragic circumstances, leading to a catastrophic conclusion. Usually a tragedy of either: choice, fate, or revenge.