Assignment No.

1
Semester 3rd
Autumn 2023
Course Code
9053
Program
BS English(ODL)

Allama Iqbal Open University

Submitted to
Miss Rozmeen
Student ID
0000354151
Date
20-Jan-2024
Q.1 Define the following terms in your own words and with appropriate
examples from the courses you studied:

a. MIDDLE ENGLISH POETRY

Middle English poetry refers to the body of literature written in the English language
between the late 12th century and the 15th century. It is characterized by several
distinctive features and themes. Middle English poetry often focused on chivalry,
courtly love, and heroic deeds of knights, reflecting the values and ideals of the
medieval period. The poetry of this era was predominantly anonymous and was often
memorized and recited orally, as written texts were not widely accessible. Notable
examples of Middle English poetry include “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight,”
“The Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer, and the works of the Pearl Poet, such
as “Pearl” and “Sir Orfeo.” These poems exhibit the use of alliteration, accentual
meter, and a wide range of themes, including romance, religious allegory, and moral
instruction.

EXAMPLES:
Some examples of Middle English poetry include:

"Sir Gawain and the Green Knight":

This is a chivalric romance poem written by an anonymous author, often referred to
as the Pearl Poet. It tells the story of Sir Gawain, a knight of King Arthur's Round
Table, and his encounter with the Green Knight.

"The Canterbury Tales" by Geoffrey Chaucer:

This is a collection of stories written in verse and prose. It is one of the most
important works of English literature and provides insight into the social and
religious life of the Middle Ages.

"Piers Plowman" by William Langland:

This is a religious allegory that follows the narrator's dream-vision and provides a
critique of the corruption in the Church and society.
"Pearl" and "Patience" by the Pearl Poet:
These are two elegiac poems that, along with "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight"
and "Cleanness," are attributed to the same anonymous poet. They are characterized
by their complex structure and religious themes.

"Confessio Amantis" by John Gower:

This is a 14th-century English poem in the form of a confession made by an aging
lover to the priest of Venus. It is a collection of exemplary tales and provides a
comprehensive view of love and its effects.
These examples represent the diverse range of themes and styles found in Middle
English poetry, including romance, allegory, and religious reflection.

b. THE SONNET
A sonnet is a type of fourteen-line poem that traditionally consists of an octave (or
two quatrains making up a stanza of 8 lines) and a sestet (a group of six lines).
Sonnets generally use a meter of iambic pentameter and follow a set rhyme scheme.
There are different types of sonnets, with the two most common variations being the
Italian (Petrarchan) sonnet and the Shakespearean sonnet. The Italian sonnet is
divided into an octave and a sestet, while the Shakespearean sonnet is composed of
three quatrains and a final couplet. Sonnets are known for their tightly structured
thematic organization and have been a popular classical form in literature for
centuries, allowing poets to explore a wide range of themes and subjects.

1. Shakespearean Sonnet (or English Sonnet):

- Structure: Three quatrains (four-line stanzas) followed by a rhymed couplet (two-
line stanza).
- Rhyme Scheme: ABABCDCDEFEFGG.
- Example: William Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18 (“Shall I compare thee to a summer’s
day?”).

2. Petrarchan Sonnet (or Italian Sonnet):

- Structure: Divided into an octave (eight-line stanza) and a sestet (six-line stanza).
- Rhyme Scheme: ABBAABBACDCDCD or ABBAABBACDCCDC.
- Example: Petrarch’s Sonnet 18 (“Chiare, fresche et dolci acque”).
Sonnets are often used to express themes of love, beauty, time, and the complexities
of human emotions. The form has been widely employed by poets across different
literary periods and cultures.

EXAMPLES:
Here are some examples of sonnets:

"Sonnet 18" by William Shakespeare:

This is a famous Shakespearean sonnet that poses the question "Shall I compare thee
to a summer's day?" and explores the poet's struggle to find a suitable subject that
compares to the beauty of his beloved.

"Sonnet 26" by Giacomo da Lentini:

This is an Italian sonnet that describes various natural phenomena, such as rain,
sunlight, and lightning, and how they can evoke different emotions.

"Sonnet 1" from "Astrophil and Stella" by Sir Philip Sidney:

This sonnet is an example of the English sonnet, which follows the Shakespearean
sonnet structure of three quatrains and a final couplet. It is a love poem that praises
the beauty of the beloved and the agony of separation.

"Holy Sonnet 10" by John Donne:

This sonnet is an example of the Spenserian sonnet, which uses a more complex
rhyme scheme than the Italian or Shakespearean sonnets. It contemplates the theme
of death and the power of love to conquer it.
"My Mistress' Eyes Are Nothing Like the Sun" by William
Shakespeare:
This sonnet is another example of a Shakespearean sonnet that explores the theme
of love and comparison. It is known for its wit and humor, as the poet compares his
beloved's eyes to the sun.
These examples showcase the diversity and richness of the sonnet form, which has
been used by poets across different periods and cultures to express a wide range of
emotions and ideas.

c. INSTRUCTIVE PROSE:
Instructive prose refers to a type of writing that aims to teach, inform, or provide
guidance on various subjects. It is characterized by its clear, concise, and practical
nature, focusing on imparting knowledge and skills to the reader. Instructive prose
can be found in various forms, such as textbooks, instruction manuals, articles, and
even some forms of fiction and poetry. The primary goal of instructive prose is to
educate and inform the reader, helping them to learn new skills, understand complex
concepts, or change their behavior and attitudes.

EXAMPLES:
In literature, instructive prose can be found in various forms, including essays,
textbooks, and instruction manuals. While the search did not provide specific
examples of instructive prose in literature, it is important to note that essays by
authors such as Ralph Waldo Emerson and Francis Bacon often contain instructive
elements, providing guidance on life, morality, and practical wisdom. Additionally,
certain works of non-fiction, such as "Walden" by Henry David Thoreau, "Self-
Reliance" by Ralph Waldo Emerson, and "Essays" by Michel de Montaigne, contain
instructive prose, offering philosophical and practical insights to the reader. These
examples demonstrate how instructive prose is utilized to educate, inform, and
provide guidance within the context of literary works.
d. COMEDY:
Comedy is a genre of literature, film, or performance that aims to entertain and
amuse through humorous situations, characters, or dialogue, often with the intent of
provoking laughter or a sense of enjoyment.
Comedy is a genre of fiction that consists of discourses or works intended to be
humorous or amusing, especially in theatre, film, stand-up comedy, television, radio,
books, or any other entertainment medium. Comedy can be characterized by its light
and amusing character, its plot structure, and its typically happy or cheerful ending.
The term "comedy" has its origins in ancient Greek drama, where it was used to
describe a genre of plays that featured ridiculous and absurd characters, as well as
happy endings. Aristotle, in his Poetics, further defined comedy as an imitation of
men worse than the average, where the characters portrayed were not necessarily
worse in every way, but only insofar as they were ridiculous.
In modern times, comedy has evolved to encompass various forms and styles,
including satirical poetry, stand-up comedy, and narrative poems with happy
endings.

EXAMPLES:
Examples of comedy can be found in various forms of entertainment, including
literature, film, television, and stand-up comedy. Some examples of comedy in
English include:

"The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde:

This play is a classic example of a comedy of manners, satirizing the social
conventions and hypocrisies of Victorian society.

"Monty Python and the Holy Grail":

This film is a classic example of a comedy that uses absurdity and farce to create
humor, as it follows King Arthur and his knights on a quest for the Holy Grail.
"The Office" (US version):
This television show is a mockumentary-style comedy that satirizes the mundanity
of office life and the quirks of its characters.

“Bridget Jones’s Diary” By Helen Fielding:

This novel is a comedic take on the romantic comedy genre, following the
misadventures of Bridget Jones as she navigates her love life and career.

"The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" by Douglas Adams:

This novel is a comedic science fiction story that follows the misadventures of
Arthur Dent and his alien friend Ford Prefect as they travel through space.
These examples demonstrate the diverse range of comedy in English, showcasing its
ability to entertain, satirize, and comment on various aspects of life and society.

e. DRAMA:
Drama in English literature is a genre of fiction that is presented through the
enactment of characters on a stage, often involving dialogue, actions, and conflicts
that unfold in front of an audience. It is a form of performance that involves conflicts,
emotions, and the portrayal of human experiences through dialogue and action. In
literature, drama often refers to written works intended for performance,
encompassing plays and theatrical scripts that are designed to be enacted by actors
on a stage. Drama differs from other forms of storytelling in its focus on dialogue
and the interaction between characters. It is a genre that holds significant importance
as artistic expression and has been a popular form of entertainment for centuries.

EXAMPLES:
Here are some examples of drama in English literature:

"Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare:

This famous play tells the story of two young lovers from opposing families who
secretly marry, only to face tragic consequences.
"Much Ado About Nothing" by William Shakespeare:
This play is a comedy that explores the themes of love, friendship, and the nature of
identity, featuring a plot involving a young man's deception and a woman's
seemingly inopportune love.

"Macbeth" by William Shakespeare:

This tragedy follows the story of a Scottish nobleman who, after receiving a
prophecy from three witches, becomes consumed by ambition and murder in an
attempt to secure his destiny.

"Oedipus Rex" by Sophocles:

This Greek tragedy tells the story of Oedipus, who unknowingly kills his father and
marries his mother, only to later discover the truth and blind himself.

"The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde:

This play is a comedy that satirizes the manners and social conventions of Victorian
society, following the adventures of two young women who pretend to be engaged
to trick their way into high society.
These examples showcase the diverse range of drama in English literature,
encompassing various themes, styles, and genres

Q.2 Write a comprehensive note on the Elizabethan poets: How greatly were
they influenced by the Greek writers?
The Elizabethan poets, who flourished during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I (1558-
1603), were greatly influenced by Greek writers. This influence can be seen in
various aspects of their work, such as themes, style, and form. Some of the key
aspects of this influence include:

THEMES:
Many Elizabethan poets drew inspiration from Greek myths, legends, and
philosophical concepts. For example, Christopher Marlowe's "The Tragical History
of Dr. Faustus" is a retelling of the Greek myth of Faust, while Ben Jonson's
"Volpone" is inspired by the Greek concept of virtue and its absence in human
characters.

STYLE:
The Elizabethan poets often adopted the Greek dramatic style, which emphasized
the emotional and physical aspects of life. This influence can be seen in the works
of poets like William Shakespeare and Richard Hooker, who used vivid language
and intense emotions to convey the human experience.

DRAMATIC INFLUENCES:
Greek drama, especially tragedies, influenced Elizabethan playwrights like
Christopher Marlowe and William Shakespeare. The concept of tragic flaws, fate,
and the exploration of profound moral and ethical dilemmas in Greek tragedies
found echoes in the Elizabethan dramatic tradition.

TRANSLATION AND ADAPTATION:

Some Elizabethan poets engaged directly with Greek works through translation and
adaptation. Sir Thomas Wyatt and Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey, translated
Petrarch’s sonnets, which had roots in the Italian tradition but were influenced by
classical Greek themes of love and beauty.

FORM:
The sonnet form, which became popular during the Elizabethan era, is closely related
to the Greek elegies. This influence can be seen in the works of poets like Edmund
Spenser and Philip Sidney, who both experimented with the sonnet form in their
poetry.

PHILOSOPHY:
The Elizabethan poets were also influenced by Greek philosophy, particularly the
works of Plato and Aristotle. Poets like Thomas Hobbes and Francis Bacon often
incorporated philosophical ideas into their works, exploring themes such as the
nature of good and evil, the role of reason in human life, and the relationship between
humans and society.

MYTHOLOGY:
Greek myths were a significant source of inspiration for Elizabethan poets. Many of
them incorporated Greek mythical characters and stories into their works, such as
Ovid's "Metamorphoses" and Virgil's "Aeneid." This influence can be seen in the
works of poets like William Shakespeare, who often used Greek myths as a backdrop
for his plays.
In conclusion, the Elizabethan poets were greatly influenced by Greek writers, as
evidenced by the themes, style, form, philosophy, and use of mythology in their
works. This influence contributed to the richness and diversity of Elizabethan
literature, which remains an enduring testament to the creativity and cultural
achievements of the era.

Q.3 What do you know about the "university wits? How were they writing
differently from other writers and why were they so popular in their
approaches to literature?
Ans: The term "university wits" refers to a group of English writers in the late 16th
century who were associated with the universities and who significantly contributed
to the flourishing literary scene of the Elizabethan era. The group included notable
figures such as Christopher Marlowe, Thomas Nashe, Robert Greene, and John Lyly.

DISTINCTIVE CHARACTERISTICS:
1. Education and Scholarly Background:
The university wits were well-educated individuals with academic backgrounds,
having studied at prestigious institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge. This
education brought a level of intellectual sophistication to their works.
2. Versatility:

Unlike some of their contemporaries, the university wits displayed versatility in their
writing. They engaged in various literary forms, including poetry, drama, prose, and
pamphlets. This versatility allowed them to explore diverse themes and styles.

3. Innovation in Drama:
Christopher Marlowe, in particular, revolutionized English drama. His plays, such
as "Doctor Faustus" and "Tamburlaine," departed from traditional medieval morality
plays, introducing complex characters, blank verse, and exploring profound
philosophical and psychological themes.

4. Prose and Satire

Some of the university wits, like Thomas Nashe, were known for their skill in prose
and satire. Nashe, for instance, wrote satirical pamphlets and essays, displaying a
sharp wit and a critical eye on society.

5. Use of Classical Influences:

Influenced by classical literature, especially the works of ancient Greek and Roman
writers, the university wits incorporated classical themes, myths, and literary forms
into their works. Marlowe's plays, for instance, reflected a classical influence in their
grand themes and tragic sensibilities.

POPULARITY AND IMPACT:

1. Cultural Renaissance:
The Elizabethan era was a time of cultural renaissance, and the university wits
played a crucial role in shaping this period. Their works reflected the intellectual and
artistic vibrancy of the time, contributing to the development of English literature.

2. Appeal to Diverse Audiences:

The university wits appealed to a broad audience. Their ability to blend classical
elements with contemporary themes made their works accessible to both the
educated elite and the general public. This contributed to the popularity of their
writings.

3. Influence on Successors:
The innovative approaches of the university wits influenced the generation of writers
that followed, including William Shakespeare. Marlowe's dramatic achievements,
for instance, paved the way for the evolution of English tragedy.

4. Literary Legacy:
The contributions of the university wits left a lasting impact on English literature.
Their experimentation with language, form, and content contributed to the dynamic
literary landscape of the time, setting the stage for the flourishing of drama and
poetry in the subsequent Elizabethan and Jacobean periods.
In summary, the university wits were a group of educated writers who, through their
versatility, innovation, and incorporation of classical influences, significantly shaped
the literary landscape of the Elizabethan era. Their popularity can be attributed to
their ability to appeal to diverse audiences and their lasting impact on the evolution
of English literature.

Q.4 Discuss the Romantic age as one of the most productive periods in the
history of English poetry. Provide appropriate examples in claim of your
argument.
The Romantic age, whichh spanned from the late 18 th century to the early 19th
century, was a highly productive period in the history of English poetry. This period
saw a shift in poetic style, themes, and the use of language, setting it apart from the
Neoclassical era that preceded it. The Romantic poets were influenced by the French
Revolution, social changes, and the Industrial Revolution, which led to a call for
more emotional and revolutionary writing. Some key characteristics of Romantic
poetry include the use of everyday language, a focus on nature, and an emphasis on
imagination and emotion.
Examples of Romantic poets and their works that support this argument include:
William Blake:
Blake’s poetry often used innovative techniques, such as printing from the relief
plates of his own hand-made printing press. His works, such as “Songs of
Innocence,” showcased his unique style and the influence of the Romantic age.

John Keats:
Keats’ poetry, particularly “Ode to a Grecian Urn,” is an example of the Romantic
emphasis on nature and the use of a more conversational tone. His work also
demonstrates the influence of Greek mythology on Romantic poetry.

Percy Bysshe Shelley:

Shelley’s poetry often focused on themes of social reform and the power of human
emotion. His work, such as “Ozymandias,” showcases his commitment to the
Romantic ideals of emotional expression and social commentary.

Lord Byron:
Byron’s poetry, particularly “Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage,” is an example of the
Romantic focus on emotion and the use of a more conversational tone. His work also
demonstrates the influence of the Romantic age on poetic style.

William Wordsworth:
Wordsworth’s poetry, such as “Tintern Abbey,” is an example of the Romantic
emphasis on nature and the use of a more conversational tone. His work also
demonstrates the influence of the Romantic age on poetic style, as he often used
everyday language and focused on the emotions and experiences of everyday life.
These examples demonstrate the innovative and influential nature of Romantic
poetry, which greatly influenced the literary landscape of the time and continues to
be celebrated for its emotional depth and poetic prowess.
Q.5 Highlight the features of the poetry from Middle English period and
mention the works of the important writers of the age.
The poetry of the Middle English period, which spanned from the 12th to the 15th
century, was characterized by several distinctive features. Some of the most
notable characteristics of Middle English poetry include:

IMPERSONALITY:
One of the most important features of Middle English literature is its impersonality.
Most of the literature from this period was anonymous, and the focus was on the
poem rather than the poet. The medieval author was at a disadvantage compared
with popular writers today, as there were no publishers, and books were reproduced
by hand, giving them a communal character.

DEPICTIONS OF CHIVALRY AND RELIGIOSITY:

Middle English literature often depicted themes of chivalry and religiosity.
Chivalry, which was the religious, social, and moral conduct followed by knights
in the Middle Ages, was a prominent theme in the poetry of this period. The strict
code of honor that shaped the behavior of knights was a common subject in Middle
English poetry.

USE OF VERSE:
Verse was the normal medium for most forms of Middle English literature. Much
of what would now be written in prose, history, instruction, etc., was put into verse,
as it made the words more memorable and more pleasant to listen to. The surviving
literature from this period is largely in verse, as it was the preferred form for
conveying various types of content.

INFLUENCE OF FRENCH MODELS:

By the end of the 12th century, English poetry had been heavily influenced by
French models. This influence is evident in the works of poets such as Lawamon,
whose “Brut” mixed alliterative lines with rhyming couplets, and the anonymous
“The Owl and the Nightingale,” which was heavily influenced by French poetry.
THE CANTERBURY TALES:
One of the most important texts to come from the Middle English period is
Geoffrey Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales” (1387-1400). This work contains
twenty-four unique tales told from the perspective of traveling pilgrims who are on
a journey to the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket in Canterbury. The work is largely
written in poetry, but some passages are written in prose, showcasing the diversity
of literary forms in Middle English literature.
The Middle English period was a time of significant literary development, and the
poetry of this era reflected the cultural, social, and linguistic changes that were
taking place. The influence of chivalry, religiosity, and the use of verse as the
primary medium for literature were key features of Middle English poetry, and the
works of important writers such as Geoffrey Chaucer and Lawamon exemplify
these characteristics.