1. English Literary History 
Review &
The Enlightenment

2. Review of what we’ve learned so far…
Classical Antiquity (Greek/Roman):
Epic poems like Odyssey
Drama
Philosophy (Socrates, Plato, etc.)
Medieval: Faith-based literature in Europe
Epic poetry continued, like Beowulf, Inferno, Canterbury Tales
Passion/mystery plays teach moral lessons to common people

3. What We’ve Learned Contd.
Renaissance:
First printing press made literature accessible
Major political changes in England & Europe
“Rediscovery” of classical learning; “learning for learning's sake”
Plays for entertainment (as opposed to religious enlightenment) returned to Europe's stages (Shakespeare’s Hamlet)

4. History of English Language
OLD ENGLISH
Beowulf
Middle English
Chaucer
Early Modern English
Shakespeare
Modern English
1800-present
Austen

5. The Enlightenment ( )
A union of philosophies and actions throughout Western Europe, England, and the American colonies
Exaltation of scientific rationalism, exemplified by the scientific method
Similar to Renaissance, thinkers were interested in the progress of humankind
Better chances of upward social mobility
Cultural institutions criticized, many religious-based; in general criticism became culturally acceptable

6. The Enlightenment Contd.
Political ideas associated with freedom and democracy began to form
“Egalitarianism” was the buzzword
Grassroots political movements began; men met in local cafes, read literature, and discussed philosophies (Important note: only white males)
Responsible for creation of America Prompted the beginning of the Industrial Revolution
French Revolution considered its end

7. The Enlightenment: Literature
Themes:
Social upheaval
Reversals of personal status
Political satire
Geographical exploration
Comparison between the supposed natural state of man and the supposed civilized state of man