AD's English Literature

Introduction In the realm of literature, there exists a profound capacity to give voice to the marginalized, the misunderstood, and the "other." Margaret Mahy once remarked, "Stories can conquer fear, you know. They can make the heart bigger." In the case of Patricia Wrightson's masterful work, "The Nargun and the Stars," this sentiment takes form as the narrative unfolds to present the "other" point of view. Critics have highlighted this shift in Wrightson's storytelling, a shift that becomes particularly evident in the interaction between young Simon, the Nargun, and the Potkoorok. This essay seeks to explore how the "other" perspective is manifested in the story and to dissect its significance in the broader context of environmentalism, human relationships, and the quest for belonging.

Introduction Destiny, the inexorable force that shapes the lives of individuals and the outcomes of their actions, has been a perennial theme in literature. Two literary giants, William Shakespeare and Thomas Hardy, each explored the concept of destiny in their works, albeit in distinct ways. It is oftain said that charecters are the form of destiny in Shakespeare while destiny itself is a character in Hardy. In this essay, we embark on a comparative journey to dissect their unique perspectives on destiny, classifying into how far they deviate from Aristotle's views on tragedy. By examining the originality and divergence in their treatment of destiny, we aim to gain insights into the profound and complex nature of this timeless theme.

"Chekhov was not only a great dramatist and short-story writer, but also a physician, a traveler, and a philanthropist. He was a man of wide culture and deep understanding of human nature. His work is characterized by its realism, its compassion, and its humor. Chekhov is one of the most important and influential writers in the history of Russian literature." Donald Rayfield in his book Anton Chekhov: A Life (1998) Introduction Anton Chekhov, the celebrated Russian playwright and short story writer , is renowned for his ability to deliver the reality of the human condition with a unique blend of humor and tragedy. Chekhov's stories are characterized by their realism, their psychological depth, and their subtle humor. He was a master of the understated, and that he was able to convey complex emotions and ideas in a few simple words. These are true even for his plays. In his plays, 'Three Sisters,' 'The Seagull,' and 'Cherry Orchard,' Chekhov takes a...

Introduction Witches, those mysterious and supernatural beings, have long fascinated the human imagination. In the world of literature, few works have captured the essence of witchcraft as vividly as William Shakespeare 's "Macbeth." In this essay, we embark on a journey to explore the portrayal of witches in "Macbeth," delving into the Elizabethan beliefs surrounding witchcraft, examining the perspective of femininity within the play, and offering a critical overview of interpretations by literary giants such as Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Thomas De Quincey, and A. C. Bradley. By the end of this exploration, we aim to unravel the intricate layers of the witch motif in Shakespeare's timeless tragedy .

Christopher Marlowe's "Dr. Faustus" is a renowned Elizabethan tragedy that explores themes of ambition, temptation, and the consequences of one's choices. It is a work of dramatic literature that, like most plays, has a well-defined structure consisting of a beginning, middle, and end. Contrary to the assertion that "Dr. Faustus" lacks a middle, it is crucial to understand the significance of the middle portion of the play in developing its characters, advancing the plot, and conveying its underlying message.

Introduction William Shakespeare , often regarded as the greatest playwright and poet in the English language, has left an indelible mark on literature and theater. His works, including timeless classics like "Othello," continue to captivate audiences around the world. However, for some, the language and complexity of Shakespearean prose can be daunting, leading to a sense of detachment from the beauty and depth of his writings. In this essay, we will embark on a journey to demystify Shakespearean language , focusing on Act 5, Scene 2 of "Othello." By examining the intricacies of his words and exploring strategies to unlock their meaning, we aim to help readers appreciate the profound beauty of the Bard's prose.   Read More   William Shakespeare

 Introduction The American literary landscape is a tapestry woven with diverse voices, stories, and experiences. In the vast sea of American novels, certain works stand out as enduring classics that have left an indelible mark on the world of literature. The selection of the ten greatest American novels is a subjective endeavor, shaped by the preferences and biases of those who compile it. In this essay, we will delve into the literary treasures that have earned a place on the list of the greatest American novels, exploring their themes, impact, and enduring relevance. I. The Ambassadors by Henry James Henry James' "The Ambassadors" is a novel that exemplifies his mastery of psychological insight and intricate character development. Published in 1903, the novel explores the clash between American innocence and European sophistication through the eyes of Lambert Strether, the protagonist.  "The Ambassadors" deal with trusting, innocent Americans who are deceived....

The influence of the French language on English has been significant and enduring. This influence can be categorized into three main periods: Old Norman Influence (11th to 14th centuries):  The most profound French influence on English came after the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 when the Normans, who spoke Old Norman (a variety of Old French), established their rule. During this period, English borrowed many words related to law, government, art, literature, and cuisine. For example, words like "court," "judge," "jury," "parliament," "council," "government," "beef," "pork," "chicken," and "music" have French origins. This infusion of French vocabulary enriched the English language and created a linguistic distinction between the Anglo-Saxon commoners (who raised and cared for animals) and the Norman aristocracy (who enjoyed the prepared dishes). Read More  Philology

I. Introduction J.R.R. Tolkien J.R.R. Tolkien's magnum opus, 'The Lord of the Rings,' ( 1937 to 1949)  is an epic fantasy that has enthralled readers for generations. This essay embarks on a journey into the rich and intricate world of Middle-earth, exploring the themes, characters, and literary brilliance that define this timeless masterpiece. Through original thoughts, creative analysis, an argumentative style, and quotes from the original text, we aim to unveil the stunning revelation that 'The Lord of the Rings' is not just a fantasy tale but a profound exploration of the hero's journey, the enduring power of friendship, and the timeless battle between good and evil. Read More  Novel II. The Mythic World of Middle-earth Tolkien's Middle-earth is a meticulously crafted realm, replete with its own history, languages, and cultures. It serves as a backdrop to the epic quest to destroy the One Ring—an artifact of immense power that threatens to plunge the wor...

 Fredric Jameson is an influential American literary critic and Marxist theorist known for his contributions to the fields of cultural criticism, literary theory, and political economy. He was born on April 14, 1934, in Cleveland, Ohio, and has had a profound impact on the way scholars and intellectuals think about culture, literature, and society. Read More Criticism Jameson's work is characterized by its interdisciplinary approach, drawing on Marxism, postmodernism, and psychoanalysis to analyze contemporary culture and its relationship to capitalism. Some of his most notable ideas and contributions include:

"The pen is mightier than the sword."   - Edward Bulwer-Lytton " In our time, political speech and writing are largely the defence of the indefensible. " George Orwell (1903 - 1950) British writer. Shooting an Elephant, "Politics and the English Language" 1. Introduction: An author's political existence is a complex and multifaceted one. On the one hand, authors are individuals with their own unique political beliefs and perspectives. On the other hand, authors are also members of a society, and their work is shaped by the social and political forces that surround them.  In the world of literature, where words are the threads that weave the tapestry of our collective consciousness, it is often overlooked that every author possesses a political existence—an identity that transcends the pages of their works. Notably,  beyond the brush strokes of a painter, the words of a writer, or the notes of a musician, lies a profound realm where art and ideology con...

Introduction: Matthew Arnold and T.S. Eliot, both distinguished figures in the literary world, offer contrasting perspectives on the essence of poetic greatness. Arnold emphasizes the importance of a poet's ability to apply ideas to life, while Eliot critiques this notion, cautioning against the reduction of ideas to mere superficial remedies for human suffering. This essay delves into the nuances of their viewpoints, exploring the multifaceted relationship between ideas and humanity in poetry and how poets can create profound works that transcend mere intellectual exercises. Read More   Poetry

While it's true that many novels have successfully made the leap to the silver screen, we must acknowledge that not all literary works are created with cinema in mind. Some texts are so intricately woven, so profoundly internal, or so experimental in their narrative that adapting them into a visual medium is akin to capturing a fleeting dream. These novels, by their very nature, pose unique challenges to filmmakers. James Wood, in his book "How Fiction Works," writes of the challenges of adapting novels to the silver screen: "The novel is a medium of time, the film a medium of space. The novel can explore the inner lives of its characters in great detail, while the film is limited to what can be shown on screen. This difference in medium can make it difficult to adapt certain novels to the big screen." Linda Hutcheon shares the same view in  "A Theory of Adaptation," writes of novels resistant to the silver screen: "Some novels are simply too com...

  A set of 30 multiple-choice questions covering UGC NET English Syllabus: You are welcome to utilize these multiple-choice questions and their explanations in order to improve your knowledge of the History of English Literature themes and your preparation for UGC NET English or the like exams. 181. What is the title of the oldest surviving epic poem in Old English literature, which recounts the heroic deeds of a legendary warrior? a) "The Canterbury Tales" b) "Beowulf" c) "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight" d) "The Wanderer" Reasoning: The correct answer is "b) Beowulf." "Beowulf" is the oldest surviving epic poem in Old English literature, composed between the 8th and 11th centuries. It narrates the heroic adventures of Beowulf and his battles against monstrous creatures. Read More  History of English Literature (Essay)   182. In Old English poetry, what is a "kenning"? a) A type of riddle b) A poetic meter c) A com...

I. Introduction George Orwell George Orwell 's '1984', which was published in 1949, is a haunting novel that transports readers into a dystopian future characterized by totalitarian control, surveillance, and the manipulation of truth.  Raymond Williams, in his book 'Orwell,' writes of 1984 as a cautionary tale about the dangers of totalitarianism and the importance of critical thinking:  "Orwell's 1984 is a cautionary tale about the dangers of totalitarianism and the importance of critical thinking. The novel depicts a world in which the government controls every aspect of its citizens' lives, including their thoughts and emotions. Orwell shows how this can be achieved through propaganda, surveillance, and violence. The novel also shows how important it is to resist the temptation to conform and to think critically about the information we are presented with."  Our essay embarks on a deep exploration of the themes, characters, and societal commen...

Introduction F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby' (1925) stands as an iconic novel that transports readers to the Jazz Age, a time of opulence and excess. This essay embarks on an exploration of the themes that define this masterpiece—wealth, decadence, and the American Dream. Through original thoughts, creative analysis, an argumentative style, and quotes from the original text, we aim to unveil the stunning revelation that 'The Great Gatsby' is not merely a portrayal of the Roaring Twenties but a profound critique of the elusive and often illusory pursuit of the American Dream.

" The prison cell has been a fertile ground for the creation of literary masterpieces. Writers such as Cervantes, Dostoevsky, and Oscar Wilde all produced some of their greatest works while incarcerated. The prison experience can provide a unique perspective on the human condition, and it can force writers to confront their own inner demons. As a result, prison literature can be some of the most powerful and moving literature ever written. " "The Outsider" Colin Wilson Introduction Throughout history, numerous famous writers have found themselves confined within prison walls. Surprisingly, rather than stifling their creativity, this forced isolation often became a crucible for their artistic genius. In these moments of captivity, these writers found the solitude, introspection, and focus necessary to produce some of their most enduring and influential works. The act of writing served as both a means of escaping the grim reality of prison life and a way to serve the...

JULIET : O Romeo, Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo? William Shakespeare (1564 - 1616) English poet and playwright. Romeo and Juliet, Act 2, Scene 2 Introduction William Shakespeare William Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet"  is a tragedy about two young lovers who are caught up in the feud between their families, the Montagues and the Capulets. The play is set in Verona, Italy, and it tells the story of Romeo and Juliet's unrequitted love, their untimely deaths, and the eventual reconciliation of their families.   Here, we additionally aim to reveal the stunning revelation that 'Romeo and Juliet' is not merely a tale of two star-crossed lovers but a profound commentary on society, youth, and the consequences of impulsive passion. The  Characterization The play's remarkable characterization extends to even its minor roles, bringing characters like the nurse and Mercutio vividly to life. The transformation of the two central characters from their initial dreamy...

A set of 30 multiple-choice questions covering UGC NET English : You are welcome to utilize these difficult multiple-choice questions and their explanations in order to improve your knowledge on George Bernard Shaw and your preparation for UGC NET English or the like exams. 151. Which George Bernard Shaw play features a character named Eliza Doolittle, who undergoes a transformation in her speech and manners? George Bernard Shaw  a) "Arms and the Man" b) "Man and Superman" c) "Pygmalion" d) "Major Barbara" Reasoning: The correct answer is "c) Pygmalion." In "Pygmalion," Eliza Doolittle, a poor flower girl, undergoes a linguistic and social transformation under the guidance of Professor Henry Higgins, illustrating Shaw's themes of class and identity.

In the realm of storytelling, where words are the tools of creation, the crafting of stunning themes in short stories is akin to the art of alchemy. It involves weaving together disparate elements—characters, settings, and plots—into a narrative elixir that stirs the soul and sparks profound revelations. American novelist Mark Twain eloquently remarked on this matter when he said, "The difference between the almost right word & the right word is really a large matter—it's the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning." Drawing inspiration from Twain's insight, writer and literary critic David Madden, renowned for his role in teaching creative writing at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, draws  the profound importance of the mot juste, or the "right word," in his captivating analysis of Gustave Flaubert's timeless masterpiece, "Madame Bovary." As we embark on this exploration of the enchanting world of themes in short ...

Linda Hutcheon, in her book "A Theory of Adaptation," writes of the art of adaptation in English literature: "Adaptation is a creative process that involves the transformation of one text into another. It is a complex art form that requires both fidelity to the original text and the imagination to create something new. Adaptation can be used to update a classic text for a new audience, to explore new themes, or to create a new work of art that is inspired by the original." Hutcheon's book is a seminal work in the field of adaptation studies, and it provides a comprehensive overview of the art of adaptation, from its history to its theory to its practice. Now, as we discuss the world of English literature ,  we   can't help but notice a recurring trend of "old wine in new bottle" in many literary works: the idea of recycling old ideas and themes, dressing them up in new language and style, and presenting them as something new and groundbreaking....

"Who kills a man kills a reasonable creature, God's image; but he who destroys a good book, kills reason itself, kills the image of God, as it were in the eye." John Milton (1608 - 1674) English writer. Areopagitica 1644 A SPEECH OF Mr. JOHN MILTON For the Liberty of UNLICENC'D PRINTING, To the PARLAMENT of ENGLAND. Introduction John Milton, the celebrated 17th-century poet and pamphleteer, penned 'Areopagitica,' one of the most influential and impassioned treatises on freedom of speech and the power of ideas. This essay aims to share knowledge about 'Areopagitica,' delving into Milton's compelling argument for unbridled intellectual liberty. Through original thoughts, creative writing, an argumentative style, and quotes from Milton's original text, we will uncover the stunning revelation that 'Areopagitica' remains a resounding call to defend free expression and the exchange of ideas, making it a timeless work with enduring relevan...

"Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body." Richard Steele (1672 - 1729) Irish-born English essayist, playwright, and politician. The Tatler (London) When it comes to reading literature, there are two distinct ways in which you can approach a text: academically and personally. While these two approaches may seem similar at first glance, they are actually quite different.  Personally, when we read a text for pleasure, we are more likely to engage with the characters and become invested in their stories. We can empathize with their struggles, rejoice in their triumphs, and mourn their losses. For example, in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice , we felt a personal connection to Elizabeth Bennet and admired her strength of character and wit. Her journey through the novel was an emotional one, and we found  ourselves rooting for her every step of the way.

Ray Bradbury, the renowned author of si-fi novel, "The Martian Chronicles," published in 1950, is known for his consistent social and political philosophy, which can be described as humanist, liberal, pacifist, and populist. These ideologies are often reflected in the themes and narratives found within the pages of "The Martian Chronicles."

  A set of 30 multiple-choice questions covering UGC NET English Syllabus: You are welcome to utilize these multiple-choice questions and their explanations in order to improve your knowledge of the Shakespearean themes and your preparation for UGC NET English or the like exams. 121. Which Shakespearean play revolves around the misadventures of a group of Athenian lovers in a magical forest? a) "Twelfth Night" b) "A Midsummer Night's Dream" c) "Macbeth" d) "Hamlet" Reasoning: The correct answer is "b) A Midsummer Night's Dream." The play "A Midsummer Night's Dream" involves the romantic entanglements and magical interventions of Athenian lovers in a whimsical forest setting.

  Introduction: Unveiling the Literary Masterpiece "The Pleasures of Conquest" by Yasmine Gooneratne is a remarkable literary work that transcends time and borders. Published in 1996, this novel has left an indelible mark on the literary world, offering a unique perspective on the complex interplay of culture, identity, and imperialism. In this article, we will dissect the key themes, characters, and narrative techniques that make Gooneratne's work an essential read for anyone interested in exploring the nuances of post-colonial literature.

Introduction Chinua Achebe Chinua Achebe's novel "No Longer at Ease" is a compelling narrative that satirically explores the challenges faced by modern Nigerian society, particularly in urban and political contexts. Published in 1960, the novel presents the struggles of Obi Okonkwo, a young Nigerian man educated in England, as he navigates the complexities of post-colonial Nigeria. Through Obi's experiences, Achebe satirizes various aspects of Nigerian urban life, political corruption, and the clash between traditional values and modernity. This essay analyzes "No Longer at Ease" as a satire on modern Nigerian urban and political problems, examining the key themes and narrative techniques used by Achebe to portray the societal issues of the time. I. Obi Okonkwo and the Clash of Cultures A. Obi's Western Education The protagonist, Obi Okonkwo, is a representation of the clash between traditional African values and modern Western influences. Educated in...

The centre of  George  Chapman 's plays is a proud character on Marlowe’s model, with a bold licence in speech and action, full of elaborate metaphors, phrase tumbling after phrase, as he asserts himself in the French Court. However, John Dryden (1631-1700) unjustly described his style as “a dwarfish thought, dressed up in gigantic words”.  Dryden believed that Chapman's plays were full of elaborate language and imagery, but that the underlying ideas were often shallow and unoriginal. In the case of Chapman, Dryden's criticism is not entirely fair. Chapman was a highly skilled poet and translator, and his plays are full of complex ideas and vivid imagery. However, it is true that his style can be overwrought and pretentious at times.

A set of 30 multiple-choice questions covering UGC NET English Syllabus: You are welcome to utilize these multiple-choice questions and their explanations in order to improve your knowledge of the Shakespearean themes and your preparation for UGC NET English or the like exams. 91. Which Shakespearean tragedy is centered around the character King, who divides his kingdom among his daughters, leading to betrayal, madness, and ultimately, his tragic downfall? a) "Macbeth" b) "Othello" c) "King Lear" d) "Hamlet" Reasoning: The correct answer is "c) King Lear." The play explores themes of familial loyalty, deception, and the consequences of unchecked power and vanity.

1. Introduction: The Renaissance period witnessed a profound transformation in English poetry , with poets seeking inspiration from various literary traditions across Europe. Sir Thomas Wyatt and the lesser-known poet Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey, are considered pioneers of this poetic revolution in England. While Wyatt adapted Petrarch and Petrarchanism to English sounds and meters, Henry Howard's verse took a different trajectory, looking back beyond Petrarchian  Latin  Vulgate   to the Latin verse. As that of Sanskrit and modern Hindi,  Latin and Italian or the   Latin  Vulgate  has a close relationship.  Latin has a rich literary history, with many classical works of literature, philosophy, and science written in this language.  Italian or  Latin  Vulgate  also has a significant literary heritage, with works by Dante, Petrarch, and Boccaccio contributing to the development of European literature.  This e...