Geoffrey Chaucer
Geoffrey Chaucer Geoffrey Chaucer (c. 1343–1400) is often called the “Father of English Poetry.” He occupies a central position in the history of English literature because he helped establish English…
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Literary Theory, Criticism, and History
Literary Theory, Criticism, and History The study of literature rests on three interconnected foundations: literary theory, literary criticism, and literary history. Though related, these terms are not identical. Each performs…
Functions of Literature
Functions of Literature There are multiple functions of literature within individual lives and within society. It is not merely a source of entertainment or aesthetic pleasure. Rather, it operates as…
Colonial Society, Economy, and British Policies in America
Colonial Society, Economy, and British Policies During the colonial period, American society evolved under the framework of British imperial authority and British Policies in America. While the colonies enjoyed significant…
The Colonial Period of America (1607–1774)
The Colonial Period of America (1607–1774) Why Did the Colonies Develop Distinct Identities? The colonial period in American history begins conventionally with the founding of Jamestown in 1607 and extends…
Philip Sidney: An Apology for Poetry
Philip Sidney: An Apology for Poetry (Context and Argument) Sir Philip Sidney’s An Apology for Poetry (also known as The Defence of Poesy), written around 1595, occupies a central place…
Aristotle and Tragedy, Plot, and Catharsis
Aristotle and Tragedy, Plot, and Catharsis The topics of Aristotle and Tragedy are inseparable in any literary and critial discussion. His discussion of tragedy in The Poetics represents the most…
Literature and Literary Study
Literature and Literary Study Before we explore emerging or digital forms, we must first ask a basic question: what is literature and literary study? The answer is neither simple nor…
Some Ways of Studying Literature
Some Ways of Studying Literature The study of literature is not limited to reading for pleasure or summarizing plots. It is an intellectual discipline shaped by diverse methods and critical…
Discovery of America and Early Exploration
Discovery of America and Early Exploration The so-called discovery of America in 1492 marks a turning point in world history. Yet the term itself is deeply problematic. The Americas were…
America Before Columbus
America Before Columbus America before Columbus Major Features of Pre-Columbian Societies Before Columbus arrived in 1492, the Americas were not an empty wilderness. They were home to complex, organized, and…
Introduction to Emerging Forms of Literature
Introduction to Emerging Forms of Literature The concept of “emerging forms of literature” challenges the traditional understanding of what literature is and how it functions. For centuries, literature was primarily…