A Journey Through English Language and Literature: From the Middle Ages to Today

A Journey Through English Language and Literature: From the Middle Ages to Today

Learning Objective

Explore the historical and literary highlights of English language and literature from the Middle Ages to the present, and understand the theoretical background.

What do you already know about English language and literature from the Middle Ages to now?

Middle Ages: Language and Literature

Overview of the development of English language and literature during the Middle Ages, including the influence of Old English and the role of epic poems like Beowulf.

Renaissance and Shakespeare

Introduction to the Renaissance period and the literary contributions of William Shakespeare, highlighting his plays and sonnets.

Industrial Revolution and Romanticism

Exploration of the impact of the Industrial Revolution on literature, focusing on the emergence of Romanticism and key Romantic writers.

World War 1 and 2: Modernism and Post-War Literature

Overview of the impact of World War 1 and 2 on literature, and the emergence of modernism and post-war literature by authors like T.S. Eliot and Virginia Woolf.

Contemporary Writers and Movements

Introduction to contemporary English literature and the works of modern writers, including an overview of diverse literary movements and themes.

Theoretical Background

Understanding the theoretical frameworks and critical approaches in studying English language and literature, including key concepts like postcolonialism and feminism.

Interactive Discussion: Theory and Literature

Interactive session to discuss the application of theoretical concepts to literary works from different historical periods.

Reflection and Questions

Review of key learning points and open discussion for students to ask questions and reflect on the lesson.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.