Lit Final

Renaissance Literary Period

Renaissance Literary Period

Characterized by a revival of interest in classical learning and values, humanism, emphasis on individualism, and advancements in art and literature.

Metaphysical Poetry

A style of poetry characterized by the use of metaphysical conceits, intellectual playfulness, and a focus on themes such as love, religion, and existence.

Romanticism

Distinguished by an emphasis on emotion, individualism, nature, and a reaction against industrialization and rationalism.

Regency Era

Marked by a focus on romance, social issues, and character development, as well as a growing interest in the middle class.

Victorian Literature

Characterized by themes of social reform, moral dilemmas, and a focus on realism and psychological complexity in characters.

Modernism

Defined by a break with traditional forms and conventions, focusing on fragmentation, subjectivity, and the exploration of consciousness.

Types of Sonnets

The two main types of sonnets are the Petrarchan (or Italian) and the Shakespearean (or English) sonnet, differing in their rhyme schemes and structure.

Women in Frankenstein

Women play complex roles, often portrayed as passive; the novel explores themes of feminism through the creation and consequences of the male-dominated world.

Prominent Themes in Frankenstein

Includes science versus nature, the psychological struggle of the creature, and socio-economic themes of isolation and existentialism.

Elizabeth Bennet

A strong-willed and intelligent character who values personal happiness over societal expectations.

Differences Between Elizabeth and Jane Bennet

Elizabeth is perceptive and independent, while Jane is gentle, romantic, and more optimistic about love.

Lydia Bennet's Role

Serves as a source of conflict and represents the reckless pursuit of pleasure, impacting her family's social standing.

Mrs. Bennet's Impact

Her behavior is often overbearing, which complicates her daughters' romantic prospects and relationships.

Mr. Bingley

Characterized as amiable, wealthy, and easily influenced; he plays a crucial role in the Bennet family's connection to higher society.

Mr. Collins

Portrayed as pompous and self-important; his role serves as a critique of social conventions and the absurdity of societal expectations.

Mr. Darcy's Evolution

Starts as proud and aloof, gradually revealing deeper compassion and moral integrity through his interactions with Elizabeth.

Wickham's Motivations

Driven by self-interest and charm; he manipulates others, significantly affecting their perceptions and relationships.

Social Class in Pride and Prejudice

Affects relationships and social dynamics, highlighting the tensions between the Bennets and the wealthier Bingleys.

Lord Henry's Influence

Influences Dorian Gray through hedonistic philosophies, encouraging him to pursue a life of indulgence and superficiality.

Basil's Impact

Basil's admiration for Dorian drives the narrative; his artistic integrity contrasts with Dorian's moral decline.

Roles of Women in The Picture of Dorian Gray

Women are often portrayed through the lens of their relationships to men, reflecting society's views on beauty and morality.

Major Themes in The Picture of Dorian Gray

Explores themes of hedonism, the duality of human nature, and the consequences of moral corruption.

Dorian's Redemption Actions

By the end of the novel, Dorian attempts redemption through self-reflection and confronting the consequences of his actions.

Literary Devices in Mrs. Dalloway

Commonly includes stream of consciousness, free indirect discourse, and symbolism, contributing to its introspective nature.

Themes of Mental Illness and WWI

Addresses the psychological effects of war and the struggles of characters dealing with mental illness in post-war society.

Social Class in Mrs. Dalloway

Explored through the interactions and perceptions between different characters, depicting societal hierarchies.

Character Foil between Mrs. Dalloway and Septimus

Mrs. Dalloway represents societal expectations while Septimus embodies the effects of trauma, highlighting their contrasting struggles.