Light and Shadows: A Study of English Literature, 1730-1780

18th-century English literature was a time of great change and upheaval. The rise of the novel, the Enlightenment, and the Industrial Revolution all had a profound impact on the way people thought about the world and their place in it. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the major authors, works, and themes of this fascinating period in English literature.

The book begins by exploring the rise of the novel. Before this time, most prose fiction was either short stories or long, rambling romances. The novel, however, was a new form of prose fiction that was typically longer and more complex than a short story, but shorter and more realistic than a romance. Some of the most famous early novels include Daniel Defoe’s *Robinson Crusoe* (1719), Samuel Richardson’s *Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded* (1740), and Henry Fielding’s *Tom Jones* (1749).

The book then goes on to discuss the Enlightenment, a philosophical movement that emphasized reason, science, and progress. The Enlightenment had a profound impact on literature, leading to a new emphasis on realism and satire. Some of the most famous Enlightenment writers include Alexander Pope, Jonathan Swift, and Samuel Johnson.

The book also explores the impact of the Industrial Revolution on literature. The Industrial Revolution led to a rapid increase in urbanization and social change. This, in turn, led to new themes and genres in literature. For example, the rise of the factory system led to the development of the industrial novel, which explored the lives of working-class people in the new industrial cities.

In addition to providing an overview of the major authors, works, and themes of 18th-century English literature, the book also includes a chapter on the literary landscape of the period. This chapter discusses the major literary salons and coffeehouses, as well as the role of the book trade and publishing in the development of English literature.

**Light and Shadows: A Study of English Literature, 1730-1780** is an essential resource for anyone interested in this fascinating period in English literature. It is a comprehensive and engaging study that provides a deep understanding of the major authors, works, and themes of the time.

If you like this book, write a review!

Click here to read a free extract of this book! 

Publisher ‏: ‎ PageBook24.com (January 13, 2025)
Language : ‎ English
Dimensions ‏: ‎ 6 x 9 inches
Pages ‏: ‎ 182 pages

Pasquale De Marco stands as a prolific author whose literary prowess knows no bounds. With a passion for storytelling that transcends genres, he has made a name for himself as a versatile writer with the extraordinary ability to captivate readers across diverse literary landscapes. His journey as an author is marked by an insatiable curiosity, a love for the written word, and a relentless commitment to sharing knowledge and experiences with the world.

Pasquale De Marco collaborates with a dedicated team of ghostreaders who assist him in evaluating and editing the manuscripts. His collaborators are not only skilled professionals but also avid readers who purchase and read books as a personal hobby. This unique blend of creativity allows Pasquale to push the boundaries of traditional publishing, making literature more accessible and diverse.