Summary of UGC NET English Literature Classes #10 | English Literature By Aishwarya Puri
Summary of UGC NET English Literature Classes #10
Main Ideas and Concepts:
- Introduction to the 18th Century Literature:
- The class focuses on the 18th-century literature, specifically the Neo-Classical Age, which spans from 1660 to 1798.
- Important writers discussed include Alexander Pope, Jonathan Swift, and Dr. Samuel Johnson.
- Neo-Classical Age:
- This period is termed "Neo-Classical" because writers imitated classical authors from the Roman Empire, particularly during the reign of Augustus Caesar.
- The Neo-Classical Age is divided into three parts:
- Restoration Age (1660-1700)
- Augustan Age (1700-1745)
- Age of Johnson (1745-1798)
- Characteristics of the Augustan Age:
- Also known as the Age of Reason or Age of Prose, it emphasized logic and reason, leading to the emergence of magazines and journals.
- Writers focused on satire, moral essays, and critiques of contemporary society.
- Alexander Pope:
- A leading figure of the Augustan Age, known for establishing literary rules and norms.
- His major works include:
- An Essay on Criticism (1711): A poetic work discussing the history of criticism and the importance of classical writers.
- The Rape of the Lock (1712, expanded in 1714): A mock-heroic poem that satirizes the triviality of high society conflicts.
- The Dunciad: A mock-heroic narrative addressing the decline of literary standards.
- Dr. Samuel Johnson:
- Known for his disciplined approach to writing and his significant contributions to English literature.
- Major works include:
- London (1738): A poem critiquing the corruption in society.
- The Vanity of Human Wishes (1749): A poem exploring the futility of human desires.
- Thomas Gray:
- A transitional poet who laid the groundwork for Romanticism.
- His notable work, Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard (1751), reflects on mortality and the common man's life.
- Oliver Goldsmith:
- An Irish poet associated with the Turk's Head Club.
- Important works include The Traveller (1764) and The Deserted Village (1770), which critique societal changes due to the Enclosure Movement.
Methodology and Key Points:
- Understanding Historical Context: Familiarize yourself with the historical background of the Neo-Classical Age and its writers.
- Focus on Key Works: Pay attention to the major works of each writer discussed, as they are often featured in examinations.
- Literary Techniques: Note the use of satire, mock-heroic forms, and moral essays as prevalent techniques in this period.
- Character and Themes: Understand the characters and themes in major works, especially in Pope’s The Rape of the Lock and Gray’s Elegy.
Important Works and Authors:
- Alexander Pope:
- Dr. Samuel Johnson:
- Thomas Gray:
- Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard
- Oliver Goldsmith:
- The Traveller
- The Deserted Village
Speakers or Sources Featured:
- Aishwarya Puri (Instructor)
Notable Quotes
— 03:11 — « If we all remember this, then we will all remain very down to earth in life. »
— 03:11 — « All rich and poor they die alike, it doesn't matter how much you did, when you are dead nothing is left beyond. »
— 03:11 — « There is no point to ask. There is no point to contradict your situation. »
— 03:11 — « Paths of Glory Lead to Grave. »
— 03:11 — « There is no point to feel bad about it. »
Category
Educational