There are 8 major periods in the history of English Literature which we’ll discuss further in detail.
Is also known as ‘The Anglo-Saxon Period’ which starts from the mid of 4th century and goes up-to the 10th century. The Angles and Saxons were the ancestors of the English race.
When the Normans conquered Britain it gave rise to a new era in the history of English literature. They brought with their rich French culture and language.
The Renaissance Period is also known as the ‘Elizabethan Period’ or ‘The Age of Shakespeare’. In-fact it is considered as the ‘Golden Age’ in the history of English literature.
The period from 1660 to 1700’s is called the Restoration Period because monarchy was restored in England. Charles II came returned to England from his exile in France and became the King.
This period can be considered the most flourished period of English Literature. Legends like Wordsworth, Coleridge, Southey, Shelley, Keats, and Byron belonged to this period.
The Victorian Period is quite complicated and is a long period. That’s the reason it is divided into 2 sub periods. The two sub periods were the Early Victorian Period (1837-1870) and Later Victorian Period (1870-1901).
This period started in the 20th century. In this period, the writer’s approach towards life and its problems that was followed in The Victorian Era was opposed.
After the second World War there was a major shift in English Literature. Which was caused by the arrival of mass mediums like newspapers, radio, TV and films.