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 is   Political which sees 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. Also, the French language lost its official position and English became the whole nation's speech. Second,  the movement  marks the growing discontent within the contrast between luxury and poverty, between idle wealthy and overtaxed people. It happened  during the reign of Richard  III. These two movements leave an impact on the literature of its time. Authors like William Langland, Wyclif, Gower,  Mandeville  and Chaucer mostly write about society, religion and its people. For instance-  William Langland voiced social discontent, preaching equality of man and the dignity of labourers, W...

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 ...