Old Anglo-Saxon literature, also known as Old English literature, refers to the body of written works produced in Old English between the 7th and 11th centuries in what is now England. This period extends from the early settlements of the Anglo-Saxons to the Norman Conquest in 1066. The literature of this era is diverse and includes poetry, prose, religious texts, legal documents, and historical records.
Medieval English literature spans roughly from the late 11th century (following the Norman Conquest in 1066) to the late 15th century (ending with the beginning of the Renaissance and the early modern period). This period is marked by a rich diversity of genres, themes, and linguistic evolution, reflecting the complex social, political, and cultural transformations of medieval England.
English Renaissance literature refers to the body of written works produced in England during the late 15th to early 17th centuries, coinciding with the broader European Renaissance—a period characterized by a revival of interest in classical learning, art, and culture. This era marks a transition from the medieval to the early modern period and is known for its rich contributions to English literature.
Metaphysical poetry is a genre of poetry that emerged in the early 17th century, characterized by its use of complex and elaborate metaphors, intellectual playfulness, and exploration of philosophical and spiritual themes. The term "metaphysical" was first used by Samuel Johnson, a poet and critic of the 18th century, to describe a group of poets whose work was marked by these distinctive features.
The 18th century in British literature, often referred to as the Augustan Age or the Age of Enlightenment, is a period marked by the flourishing of satire, the development of the novel, and a strong emphasis on reason, order, and wit. This era spans from approximately 1700 to 1800 and is characterized by significant social, political, and cultural changes, including the rise of the middle class and the expansion of print culture.
Preromanticism and Romanticism are two significant movements in British literature that mark a transition from the Enlightenment's focus on reason and order to an emphasis on emotion, nature, and individualism. Preromanticism time period: Late 18th century, roughly from the 1740s to the early 19th century. Romanticism time period: Late 18th century to mid-19th century, roughly 1790 to 1850.
The Victorian period in English literature refers to the era of British literature during the reign of Queen Victoria, which lasted from 1837 to 1901. This period is marked by significant social, political, and cultural changes, including industrialization, urbanization, scientific advancements, and the expansion of the British Empire. Victorian literature reflects the complexities of this era, exploring themes such as morality, social reform, the role of women, and the impact of technology on society.
English literature at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, often referred to as the "Fin de Siècle" or the "Edwardian Era," encompasses a period of literary experimentation, social change, and cultural transition. This era witnessed the decline of Victorian values and the emergence of modernist sensibilities, marked by a questioning of traditional beliefs and a fascination with the complexities of human psychology.
Modernism in English literature refers to a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, marked by a radical departure from traditional literary forms, styles, and themes. Modernist writers sought to capture the complexities and uncertainties of the modern world, often experimenting with innovative narrative techniques, fragmented structures, and unconventional subject matter.
Postwar II British literature refers to the literary output produced in Britain following the end of World War II in 1945. This period encompasses a diverse range of literary movements, styles, and themes, reflecting the social, cultural, and political changes of the postwar era.
Postwar British poetry and drama refer to the literary output in these two forms that emerged in Britain following the end of World War II in 1945. These artistic expressions reflect the social, cultural, and political landscape of postwar Britain, grappling with the aftermath of the war, the changing nature of society, and the shifting perceptions of national identity.
Postcolonial British literature refers to the body of literary works produced in Britain by writers from former colonies or by descendants of immigrants from those colonies. It emerged as a significant literary category in the latter half of the 20th century and continues to evolve as a rich and diverse field of study.
Contemporary British literature refers to the body of literary works produced in Britain from the late 20th century to the present day. This period encompasses a diverse range of genres, styles, and themes, reflecting the complexities of contemporary British society and culture.