Definition of Pure English Literature
Pure English Literature refers to literary works originally written in the English language. It includes all major literary forms: poetry, prose, and drama. It studies the structure, style, themes, and meanings within texts, focusing on the aesthetic and intellectual aspects of literature.
Pure English Literature is a vast and rich field that captures the evolution of human thought, creativity, and society through the English language. It is both a mirror of its time and a timeless exploration of the human condition.
Major Characteristics
- Creative Expression: Literature uses language artistically to express thoughts, emotions, and imagination.
- Imaginative and Intellectual: Combines artistic imagination with serious reflection on human nature and society.
- Language-Centered: Emphasizes the beauty, power, and flexibility of the English language.
- Cultural Reflection: Literature reflects and often critiques the society in which it is produced.
- Timelessness: Deals with universal themes such as love, death, identity, power, and morality.
Main Genres
1. Poetry
Poetry in the Pure English Literature is written in verse form. It often uses rhyme, rhythm, and imagery. It expresses personal feelings, observations, or social commentary. Its examples are sonnets, elegies, odes, epics.
2. Prose
Prose in the Pure English Literature is written in ordinary language without metrical structure. It includes novels, short stories, and essays. Its examples are novels exploring human experience and psychological depth.
3. Drama
Drama in the Pure English Literature means a composition meant to be performed on stage. It involves characters, dialogue, and conflict. Its examples are tragedies, comedies, historical plays.
Pure English Literature in Literary Periods
- In Old English Period, it was written in mainly heroic and religious themes.
- In Middle English Period, it was influenced by French and Christian thought. The notable forms are rise of allegories and chivalric romances.
- In Renaissance / Early Modern Period, it flourished in the form of drama and poetry. It focused on humanism, individualism, and classical learning.
- In Neoclassical Period, it emphasized reason, order, and decorum. The notable forms are rise of satire and essays.
- In Romantic Period, it emphasized emotion, nature, and imagination. It valued individual experience and creativity.
- In Victorian Period, it dealt with industrialization, morality, and social issues. It dominated by novelists and moral reflection.
- In Modern Period, it explored themes of alienation, fragmentation, and disillusionment. It broke traditional forms and experimented with style.
- In Postmodern and Contemporary Literature, it focused on diversity, identity, and language games. It embraced ambiguity, intertextuality, and metafiction.
Purpose and Importance
- Understanding Humanity: Literature helps readers understand human behavior, emotions, and relationships.
- Cultural Awareness: Provides insight into different cultures, histories, and philosophies.
- Language Mastery: Enhances appreciation and command of the English language.
- Critical Thinking: Encourages analysis, interpretation, and evaluation of complex ideas.
Common Themes of Pure English Literature
- Love and loss
- Good vs evil
- Identity and self-discovery
- Power and corruption
- Nature and civilization
- Time and memory
- Social justice and inequality
