Anglo - American Literature_Part 2
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WELCOME TO UNITED KINGDOM 1 D C
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United Kingdom Overview
The United Kingdom (UK) is composed of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Located off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe.
Population is approximately 67 million.
Rich history as the center of the British Empire, the largest empire in history.
Governing system: parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy.
Global cultural influence and a leader in politics, trade, and culture.
London is the capital city, known for being a financial and cultural hub.
Significant contributions in global events like the Industrial Revolution and the World Wars.
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British Culture
The UK has a strong tea-drinking culture, introduced in the 17th century by Catherine of Braganza (a Portuguese princess).
By the 18th century, tea became popular across all social classes due to the British East India Company imports.
Notable customs include "afternoon tea" and "high tea," which are integral rituals in British society.
Currently, about 100 million cups of tea are consumed daily in the UK.
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Culinary Influence
Curry is a widely loved dish in the UK, with Chicken Tikka Masala recognized as the national dish.
The popularity of curry is largely due to immigration from South Asia (Pakistan, India, Bangladesh).
Notable curry hotspots include Brick Lane in London, "Curry Road" in Manchester, and the "Balti Triangle" in Birmingham.
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Etymology of England
The name "England" is derived from the Old English term "Englaland," meaning "Land of the Angles."
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English Literary Periods
Categories of English literature include:
Old English
Middle English
Early Modern English
Modern English
Romanticism
Victorian
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Old English Period
A distinct phase in English literature characterized by specific features.
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Key Features of Old English
Stories were passed down orally through generations.
Genres:
Epic: A long narrative poem recounting heroic deeds.
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The Middle Ages (5th-15th Century)
Important historical period that influenced literature.
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Key Features of the Middle Ages
Works began to be written in modern English instead of Latin.
Popular genres included heroic tales and romances about knights and chivalry.
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Geoffrey Chaucer
A prominent 14th-century poet known for "The Canterbury Tales."
Transitioned literary language from Latin and French to English.
"The Canterbury Tales" is a collection of diverse stories from pilgrims, addressing themes like social class, morality, and society.
Regarded as the "Father of English Literature."
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The Renaissance Period (1300s-1500s)
A period of cultural rebirth influencing literature.
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Key Features of the Renaissance
Texts exhibited optimism while retaining medieval traditions.
Genres:
Lyric poetry: Focused on expressing personal sentiments like sonnets.
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William Shakespeare
Arguably the greatest playwright in English literature.
Active during the late 16th and early 17th centuries.
Explored themes of human nature, love, ambition, and morality through rich language and vivid characters.
Notable titles include his plays and sonnets; often referred to as the "Bard of Avon" and the "National Poet of England."
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Age of Enlightenment/Reason/The Restoration (1685-1815)
This literary era emphasized enlightenment and philosophical reasoning.
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Key Features of the Enlightenment
Works commonly reflect skepticism towards institutions and authority.
Genres:
Epic: John Milton’s "Paradise Lost" and "Paradise Regained"
Plays and Essays were also prominent in this period.
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Paradise Lost
An epic poem by John Milton, published in 1667, focusing on the biblical Fall of Man.
Themes include free will, obedience, temptation, and redemption, featuring Satan as a complex character.
Examines humanity’s struggle between good and evil.
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Paradise Regained
Milton’s sequel to "Paradise Lost," published in 1671.
Centers on Jesus Christ's temptation by Satan, emphasizing triumph over temptation.
Highlights themes of self-control, obedience, and spiritual resilience.
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The Romantic to Realistic Period (around 1770-1890)
Reflected a transition in literary styles and themes.
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Key Features of Romanticism
Writers focused on themes of truth, morality, and human existence.
Genres:
Gothic fiction: Characterized by grotesque and gloomy settings, with intricate storytelling.
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Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Significant 19th-century English poet; known for personal and socially-minded works.
Acclaimed for "Sonnets from the Portuguese," especially the sonnet "How Do I Love Thee?" that explores themes of love, faith, and social justice.
Her writings advocate for women's rights and the abolition of slavery, solidifying her influence in the Victorian era.
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How Do I Love Thee? (Sonnet 43)
A famous sonnet by Elizabeth Barrett Browning that expresses profound feelings of love in various dimensions and contexts, showcasing emotional depth and passion.
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How Do I Love Thee? (Sonnet 43)
Reiteration of the emotional and lyrical expressions found in the sonnet, emphasizing love's endurance and depth.
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Modern to Contemporary Literature (1900-present)
A significant period that reflects changes in society and individual perspectives.
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Key Features of Modern Literature
New literary forms challenge traditional narratives and reflect social injustices.
Known for experimental narratives; stream of consciousness narratives are common.
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Robert Frost
A renowned 20th-century American poet, celebrated for his portrayal of rural New England and exploration of deep social themes.
Famous works include "The Road Not Taken," "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening," and "Mending Wall."
His poetry combines traditional forms with accessible language infused with complex meanings, making him one of America's greatest poets.