Literary history of england
English Literature is and always will be a part of the heritage of the English-speaking world. Since the time it was created, it has continued to influence today's literary world. Literature was overall nonexistent before Christian times. Early stories and tales were passed on through oral tradition. Some literature written during Christian times was rooted from pagan tales and stories, such as the famous tale of Beowulf. Stories about heroism and bravery were very common during these times. Since then, English literature has grown, evolved, and continued to inform and entertain the populations of English-speaking countries. In its earliest form, literature was entertainment and leisure for the whole family. Folktales and fables would teach the audiences lessons about life. Much of the prose from early times originated from Latin books and was converted to English during the reign of King Alfred (c870-900). However, the emergence of Christianity changed the common prose of England. Written language started to be applied for use that was more utilitarian rather than for entertainment. Wills, deeds, and other official documents were being created. The Literature and language of England continued to change. Rhyme became quite p
During his time serving King Edward, he made good friends with John of Gaunt. They met sometime around 1357, both about the same age. The first of Chaucer's important poems came about as a result of his friendship with John. Book of Duchess was written in memory of Blanche, the Duchess of Lancaster, John's first wife. She died of the plague early in 1369. Chaucer decided to use the "dream-vision form of poetry, which was made famous by the 13th century French poem, Roman De La Rose (Chesterton, 73)." He translated the poem and incorporated some of its subject matter into his own works throughout his career. "The use of dream-vision incorporated with his 'eulogy' for the duchess was truly an original idea (Chesterton, 73)." He also transformed the classic third person style of poetry and began using first person point of view, which he tends to use many times later in his career. "'Book of Duchess' revealed his skill at presenting the rhythms of natural conversation within the borders of the Middle English language while still creating realistic characters (Gardner, 107)." In the closing of "Tales", "Chaucer explains that his, as well as everyone else's, concern for this world fades when compared to the prospect of the next world. He openly repents to God for his works of the pursuit of earthly vanities and possessions (Chesterton,
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Approximate Word count = 905
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)
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