What is Literature?
A body of written works
Derived from the Latin word ‘litaritura/litteratura’ meaning ‘writing formed with letters.’
Where did literature originate?
Southern Mesopotamia region of Sumer (c. 3200)
Later flourished in Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
Who is considered the first author of literature in the world?
Enheduanna (2285-2250 BCE)
High-priestess of Ur who wrote hymns for Inanna.
Name one of the earliest literary works.
Epic of Gilgamesh (c. 2150 BCE)
Another early work is the Sumerian Enuma Elish (1120 BCE).
What is one purpose of literature?
Entertainment
It provides a captivating escape into fantastical worlds.
What does literature offer in terms of education?
Knowledge and understanding of history, culture, and human emotions.
How does literature serve as social commentary?
It reflects societal issues and sparks conversations.
What role does literature play in self-discovery?
Explores ourselves, our values, and our place in the world.
What emotional connection does literature evoke?
Empathy and connection with characters.
What is the Classical Period known as?
The Golden Age of Literature.
What are characteristics of Classical literature?
- Valued common sense and clarity
- Content is accurate and believable
- Interest in writing epics
- Focus on poetry and prose over the novel.
Name a prominent literary work from the Classical Period.
The Epics of Iliad and Odyssey by Homer.
What is the Medieval Period also known as?
The Dark Age of Literature.
What are characteristics of Medieval literature?
- Consists of sermons, prayers, and lives of saints
- Religious literature flourishes
- Prominent in writing allegory
- Themes of chivalry and courtly love.
Name a prominent author and literary piece from the Medieval Period.
Beowulf by an anonymous author.
What is the Renaissance and Reformation Period known as?
The Period of Rebirth.
What are characteristics of the Renaissance and Reformation Period?
- Increased interest in Greek Classical values
- Movement away from purely religious themes
- Exploration of human nature.
Name a prominent author and literary piece from the Renaissance and Reformation Period.
Hamlet by William Shakespeare.
What is the Enlightenment Period also known as?
The Neoclassical Period.
What defines the Enlightenment Period?
- Common sense, order, accuracy, and structure
- Characters practice conservatism and self-control
- Reason and logic dominate literature.
Name a prominent author and literary piece from the Enlightenment Period.
Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift.
What is the Romantic Period known as?
Romanticism.
What are characteristics of the Romantic Period?
- Celebration of nature
- Focus on the individual and spirituality
- Emphasis on emotion and imagination.
Name a prominent author from the Romantic Period.
William Wordsworth.
