AD's English Literature

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

  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...

Did you know that the medieval period is a fascinating time in history? The medieval era in England was a time of immense change and transformation. It was a period of transition from the Anglo-Saxon era to the modern era . It's the era between 1066 and 1485, which was marked by William of Normandy's victory over King Harold at the Battle of Hastings. This was a pivotal moment in history that ushered in a new era of transformation for England under Norman rule. It's interesting to note that the overthrow of the Saxon kingdom of England led to significant changes in the country that the Normans conquered. During this period, there were many significant events that took place, shaping the course of history in England. The Hundred Years War Medieval England The most notable is The Hundred Years War.  It was a conflict between England and France that lasted from 1337 to 1453. The hostilities began over a dispute over the succession to the French throne. The war was marked by se...

"That passed away; this also may." "Deor's Lament" I. Introduction "Deor's Lament" (included in  Exeter Book)  is one of the oldest surviving elegiac poems in the English language. Its author is unknown, but it is believed to date back to the 9th century or even earlier in the Anglo-Saxon Era . This poem is significant not only for its age but also for its structure, themes, and historical context. The poem tells the story of Deor, a scop (a poet or singer) who has lost his position at court and is suffering from great sorrow and longing. In the poem, Deor uses the stories of Weland and Eormanric to make sense of his own situation and find hope in the power of music and poetry. In this article, we will explore "Deor's Lament" in-depth and examine its various interpretations and legacies. II. The Context of "Deor's Lament" "Deor's Lament" is a poem that describes the experiences of a scop, a poet and entert...

Castles are a fascinating part of the British history and English literature . They were built over hundreds of years, from the 11th century onwards, and played a vital role in shaping the country's political and social landscape. Life during the time of the castles was harsh and uncertain, with war and conflict a constant threat. Despite this, castles were also centers of power, culture, and learning, and they continue to captivate our imaginations today. Castles were built during a time when the threat of invasion was high. They were designed as strongholds to protect the ruling class and their people from marauding armies. However, life for the common people outside the castle walls was much harder. They lived in small, overcrowded villages and towns, constantly at risk of attack from enemy forces. Castles were symbols of power and wealth, and the ruling classes lived in relative luxury, while the common folk struggled to survive. The idea that castles are often used as pla...

A Set of 26 Objective Questions & Answers UGC NET ENGLISH QUESTION BANK The History of English Literature                                                                The Old English   or Anglo- Saxon Period 1. Why are the dates 410 A.D and 597 A.D important? Ans: The year 410 A.D is important in the history of England because it is the year when the Romans withdrew from this year. The year 597 is important because St. Augustine came to England and Christianity was introduced in this year. Read More A to Z (Objective Questions)   2. Name two Anglo-Saxon Elegies thathave stanza pattern and refrain. Ans:   Dear’s Lament and Wulf and Eadwacer

I ntroduction: John Milton’s Paradise Lost and Tulsidasa's Ramcharitmanas enjoys a magical cast of characters including one mournful king-man, an inarticulate but athletic scarecrow devil, a chattering spiritual, two apprentice enchanters, many headstrong leaders, and a host of others. The Wizard Satan is, of course, one of the major characters, as is the determined Rama hater, who proves by the end of the story to be both his match and his mate. Read More Criticism Myth the fire demon and the Ravana of the far, furlong round out the central foursome, and it is through their intervention that Satan and Rama originally come—and eventually remain—together by the voice of incarnation. Tulsidasa's Ramcharitmanas opens with Rama, the eldest of four brothers. Although gifted with intelligence, diligence, and a supportive nature, Rama constantly denigrates himself because of the expectations surrounding her birth status: In India it is quite a fortune to be born the eldest of ...

"I depict men as they ought to be, but Euripides portrays them as they are." Sophocles  (496? - 406 BC ) Greek playwright, 340? BC .   Euripides wrote about ninety tragic plays of which eighteen are extant. We should also include Rhesus and one satyric play, which have been transmitted to us. The surviving plays are Alcestis (438 B. C., Medea (431 B. C.), Hippolytus (428 B. C.), Trojan Women (415 B. C.), Helen (412 B. C.), Orestes (408 B. C.), Iphigenia at Aulis (405 B. C.), Bacchae (405 B. C.), Andromache, Children of Heracles, Hecuba, Suppliants, Electra, Madness of Heracles, Iphigenia in Tauris, Ion, Phoenissae, Cyclops, and Rhesus. Euripides’ plays received criticism for their structure. His use of the chorus as independent of the chief action of the drama was unconventional, and some of his works contain brilliant detached episodes that do not form coherent units through which the plots are gradually developed. However, this c...