ANGLO-SAXON PERIODS

ANGLO-SAXON PERIODS:

 The Anglo-Saxon period, lasting from roughly the 5th to the 11th century in what is now England, marks a crucial era in English history and literature. It encompasses the migration of Germanic tribes to Britain and the subsequent establishment of various Anglo-Saxon kingdoms. This period’s literature primarily includes epic poems like “Beowulf,” which celebrates heroism and valor. It’s a time of oral tradition, with these stories passed down through generations before being recorded in Old English.

GEOFFREY  CHAUCER:

 Geoffrey Chaucer (c. 1343-1400) was an English poet, writer, and civil servant during the Middle Ages. He is best known for his influential work, “The Canterbury Tales,” a collection of stories written in Middle English. Chaucer is often referred to as the “Father of English Literature” because his works played a crucial role in developing the English language into a literary medium. 

Key points about Geoffrey Chaucer: 

“The Canterbury Tales”: This is Chaucer’s most famous work, consisting of a frame story where pilgrims tell stories to pass the time on their journey to Canterbury. These stories provide a diverse and vivid portrayal of medieval English society.

Middle English:

 Chaucer’s writing helped solidify Middle English as the dominant literary language in England, transitioning away from Old English.

 Career: Chaucer served as a government official and diplomat, which exposed him to various social classes and cultures, influencing his writing.

 Literary Legacy: His writing style and use of vernacular language set a precedent for future English literature. Chaucer’s influence can be seen in the works of later English poets and writers.

Canterbury Tales Characters: The characters in his tales represent a cross-section of medieval society, from the nobility to the common people, offering insight into the social dynamics of the time. Contributions: Chaucer’s works showcase his keen observations, wit, and storytelling prowess, making him a significant figure in the history of English literature. 

JOHN KEATS:

John Keats was a renowned English Romantic poet who lived from 1795 to 1821. He is celebrated for his lyrical and evocative poetry, which often explores themes of beauty, nature, love, and the transient nature of life.

 Some key points about John Keats include:

 Early Life: Keats was born in London, and he faced numerous hardships in his early life, including the deaths of his parents and younger brother. These experiences influenced his poetry, making it rich with themes of mortality and loss.

Poetry Style: Keats’ poetry is characterized by its vivid imagery, sensual language, and a deep connection to nature. He is known for his odes, such as “Ode to a Nightingale” and “Ode to a Grecian Urn,” which are considered among the finest examples of Romantic poetry.

 Romanticism: Keats was part of the Romantic literary movement, which emphasized individual emotion, imagination, and a strong connection to nature. His work often reflects the Romantic focus on the beauty and sublime aspects of the natural world.

Tragic Life: Keats’ life was tragically short. He died of tuberculosis at the age of 25, which is a recurring theme in his poetry, as he grappled with the idea of his own mortality.

 Legacy: Although he didn’t gain widespread recognition during his lifetime, John Keats is now considered one of the greatest poets in the English language. His poetry continues to be studied and admired for its emotional depth and artistic beauty. Overall, John Keats’ works continue to inspire readers with their exploration of human emotions, the fleeting nature of life, and the enduring power of poetry to capture the essence of existence.

PERCY BYSSHE SHELLEY:

 Percy Bysshe Shelley, often referred to as P.B. Shelley, was a prominent English Romantic poet who lived from 1792 to 1822. He was known for his radical views, intense lyricism, and his commitment to social and political change.

 Here are some key aspects of Shelley’s life and work:

 Early Life: Shelley was born into a wealthy aristocratic family in England. He attended Oxford University but was expelled for publishing a pamphlet on atheism. His early exposure to radical political ideas influenced his later work.

Poetry Style: Shelley’s poetry is characterized by its passionate and often rebellious nature. He was a master of lyrical expression and explored themes of love, nature, social injustice, and the power of the imagination. His notable works include “Ozymandias,” “To a Skylark,” and “Prometheus Unbound.” Political Activism: Shelley was deeply committed to political and social reform. He advocated for the rights of the oppressed and the overthrow of oppressive governments. His poem “The Masque of Anarchy” is a powerful call for nonviolent resistance and political change.

Romanticism: Like other Romantic poets, Shelley celebrated the individual’s creative and emotional expression. He had a strong affinity for nature and the supernatural, which is evident in his poetry. Relationships: Shelley’s personal life was marked by tumultuous relationships, most notably his elopement with Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin, who later became Mary Shelley, the author of “Frankenstein.” The two faced societal criticism and tragedy, including the deaths of several children. Tragic Death: Shelley died in a boating accident off the coast of Italy at the age of 29. His body was cremated on a beach near Viareggio, and his ashes were later buried in the Protestant Cemetery in Rome. His death further fueled the Romantic myth surrounding his life and work.

Shelley’s poetry continues to be studied and admired for its passionate idealism, vivid imagery, and social critique. He remains an important figure in the Romantic literary movement and is remembered for his commitment to both artistic expression and social justice.