This topic will cover the ages of the Elizabethan era and the Jacobean era. Special reference to the Elizabethan prose and drama shall be given.
If you are a Literature student, especially if you are pursuing an MA in English Literature or preparing for UGC NET English Literature, then you should be aware of these topics.
The Historical Overview Of Drama Upto Restoration Period
Literary Decline After Chaucer’s Death
Political Reasons
– Chaucer’s death marked a decline in literature.
– Political turmoil, including the War of Roses, drained the country’s energy and resources.
– Noble families, who often supported art and literature, suffered greatly.
Henry VII’s Ascension (1485)
Establishing Stability
– Henry VII’s reign brought stability and recovery.
– He strengthened the monarchy and restored order.
– Reduced the powers of barons and supported the emerging wealthy class.
– England regained its influence among European nations.
– The Renaissance’s influence started with Caxton’s press in London (1476).
Henry VIII’s Reign (1509-1547)
Modern Statecraft
– Henry VIII initiated significant changes.
– Encouraged trade, manufacturing, and increased national wealth.
– Eased feudalism’s decline by promoting men of low birth.
– Favoured individual ambition, drawing talent and learning to his court.
– England contributed to the new civilization and learning of the Renaissance.
– Education became more widespread.
– Oxford’s Cardinal’s College and Christ Church College were founded.
Reformation Influence
– Henry VIII’s reign expedited the Reformation.
– Separation from Rome (1534) sparked theological reforms.
– Hugh Latimer became a prominent Reformation advocate.
– Writing of pamphlets, both serious and satirical, flourished.
– William Tyndale and Miles Coverdale’s Bible translations marked a significant development in English prose.
Literary Flourishing Under Henry VIII
Court Patronage
– Henry’s court became a major patron of learning, art, and literature.
– Peaceful and calm times fostered a surge in literary activity.
Reigns Of Edward VI (1547-1553) And Mary (1553-1558)
Religious Conflicts
– Edward VI’s reign continued the flourishing of literature.
– Mary’s reign was marred by religious conflicts.
– Roman Catholicism was restored in England.
– Creative activity slowed during Mary’s rule but rebounded under Queen Elizabeth (1558-1603).
The English Renaissance Overview
Socio-Political and Religious Conditions
– The introduction to the golden period known as the Age of Elizabeth.
– The English Renaissance encompassed three periods:
1. The Beginning of Renaissance (1516-1558)
2. The Flowering of Renaissance (1558-1603) (The Age of Elizabeth)
3. The Decline of Renaissance (1603-1625) (The Jacobean Age)
The upcoming topics to be covered include –
- The Elizabethan And Jacobean Ages
- Elizabethan Prose
- Elizabethan Drama
Final Words
I hope that the information I have provided in this chapter has been useful to you. If you want study material on some other topic, feel free to let me know in the comments. Also, you can check out the UGC NET Syllabus For English Literature – 2023, and Cultural Studies In English Literature For UGC NET PDF