An Introduction to British Literary Periods

The British people and their language have influenced the events and literature of many other cultures. In fact, American literary history can in part be traced back to the earliest British “writers”, the Anglo-Saxons. In this topic, you will examine an overview of British history, beginning with the Medieval Period and ending with the modern era. While you will study these literary periods in greater detail throughout this course, this introduction will give you an high level perspective.

Essential Questions

• What historical, political, and social events have shaped British literature?