Literary Foundation

THE AGE OF CHAUCER (1350-1400) Historical Background- The fourteenth century is a remarkable period in England. It is known for two great movements. First, Political; it shows the growth of the national spirit following the victories of a hundred years of war. A wave of patriotic enthusiasm swept away the jealousy and mutual distrust among people. The French language lost its official position and English became the whole nation's speech. Second, This movement was during the reign of Richard  III . It marks the growing discontent within the contrast between luxury and poverty, between idle wealthy and overtaxed people. LITERARY FEATURES OF THE AGE The literature produced after these two movements clearly reflects the exciting life of the time. There is an author William Langland who voiced the social discontent, preaching equality of man and dignity of labors. The Wyclif gave the Gospel to the people in their own tongue. Gower, the scholar, and literary man criticizing this vigoro

The word Literature is derived from the Latin " litteraturae " meaning "writing". "Literature" is commonly used since the eighteenth century to designate   fictional and imaginative writings (poetry, prose, fiction, and drama). In expanded use, it designates that works have some essential qualities such as Artistic,  Universality, Emotion, Imagination, and Permanence. Characteristics of literature:- Artistic-  It is a significant quality of all literature. All art is an expression of life in the form of truth and beauty. Which remain unnoticed until brought to our attention by some sensitive human soul.                                     Suggestive-  It is the second quality. Its appeal to our emotions and imagination.  e.g.- When Faustus in the presence of Helen asks, "was this the face that launched a thousand ships"? He does not state a fact rather he opens a door of our imagination that enters in a new world- a world of love, music, beauty,