English Literature in Context

Comprehensive and accessible, this textbook supports the study of English literature from the Middle Ages to the present, and is designed as a main resource for all English Literature students. The book is carefully structured for undergraduate use, with a rich range of illustrations and textboxes that enhance and summarise vital background material. The seven chronological chapters are written by a team of expert contributors who are also highly experienced teachers with a clear sense of the requirements of the undergraduate English curriculum. Each analyses a major historical period, surveying and documenting the cultural contexts that have shaped English literature, and focusing on key texts. In addition to the narrative survey, each chapter includes a detailed chronology, providing a quick-reference guide to the period; contextual readings of select literary texts; and annotated suggestions for further reading. This is an invaluable reference for students and teachers alike.

• Written by a team of seven contributors, all of whom are experienced teachers of literature with a clear sense of the needs of undergraduate students • Follows the same period divisions used in the Norton Anthologies, which are referenced throughout • Provides detailed chronologies, text boxes, carefully chosen illustrations to stimulate debate and enhance understanding, and structured and annotated suggestions for further reading and research

Preface Paul Poplawski; 1. Medieval English, 500–1500: Chronology; I. Historical overview; II. Literary overview; III. Texts and issues; IV. Readings; V. Reference Valerie Allen; 2. The Renaissance, 1485–1660: Chronology; I. Historical overview; II. Literary overview; III. Texts and issues; IV. Readings; V. Reference Andrew Hiscock; 3. The Restoration and 18th Century, 1660–1780: Chronology; I. Historical overview; II. Literary overview; III. Texts and issues; IV. Readings; V. Reference Lee Morrissey; 4. The Romantic Period, 1780–1832: Chronology; I. Historical overview; II. Literary overview; III. Texts and Issues; IV. Readings; V. Reference Peter J. Kitson; 5. The Victorian Age, 1837–1901: Chronology; I. Historical overview; II. Literary overview; III. Texts and issues; IV. Readings; V. Reference Maria Frawley; 6. The twentieth century, 1901–1939: Chronology; I. Historical overview; II. Literary overview; III. Texts and issues; IV. Readings; V. Reference Paul Poplawski; 7. The twentieth century, 1939–2004: Chronology; I. Historical overview; II. Literary overview; III. Texts and issues; IV. Readings; V. Reference John Brannigan.

‘ … a brilliantly designed textbook, thoughtfully conceived and appealingly presented, clearly showing how literature is vibrantly alive in and to the world in which it was written. Both students and teachers will find this book of great use and genuine interest.’ David Scott Kastan, Columbia University

\'This is an exceptionally accessible and lucid account of English Literature in all its glorious abundance. The volume contains everything the student will need to assist them in their understanding and interpretation of any literary period: from snippets of texts illustrating key social and cultural phenomena; time-lines; engaging discussions of the historical background; exemplary readings of major literary works; and lists of reference works - this one book has it all. The sum of the parts is an excellent and invaluable guide, sure to enhance the student’s encounter with major works and authors on an English degree course. If there’s one book students should have alongside them as they study the primary sources, this is it.\' Elaine Treharne, Professor of Early English, Florida State University

‘It is difficult, indeed, to imagine a more expansive and authoritative introduction to the study of English literature than English Literature in Context.’ Kenneth Womack, The Pennsylvania State University, Altoona