Teaching Students About Literary Periods
Literature is an important subject for students to study, as it reflects the culture and society of the time it was written in. To understand the full meaning of a literary work, it is crucial to have knowledge of the time period in which it was written. This way, students can analyze the societal and cultural forces that influenced the work’s creation and understand the author’s intention. Therefore, teaching students about literary periods is an essential aspect of any literature curriculum.
So, what are literary periods?
Literary periods refer to distinct eras in which literature was written. It divided literature into specific time frames, marked by unique artistic styles, cultural shifts, and historical changes. As a result, students can help distinguish between the types of literary works and analyze literature more thoroughly. Engaging with literary periods helps the students to ask themselves a variety of questions, allowing them to develop critical thinking skills and immerse themselves in literature in a more profound way.
A few significant literary periods include:
Medieval
The medieval period is categorized by the works of authors, such as Geoffrey Chaucer and William Langland. Literature during the medieval period is characterized by Arthurian legends, religious and moral texts, allegories, and ballads.
Renaissance
The Renaissance period focused on the ideology of humanism, which emphasized the value and potential of humankind. This period also included works by literary giants, such as William Shakespeare and John Donne.
Romantic
The Romantic period was a literary and artistic movement that focused on emotions, individualism and emphasized the beauty of nature. It also included works by William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and John Keats.
Victorian
The Victorian period was characterized by a focus on morality, realism, and social issues. The literature of this period represented the growth of the British Empire and the rapid industrialization of society.
Once the literary periods have been introduced to students, educators can then guide them in analyzing the literature of each period in depth. In doing so, students can recognize the unique characteristics of each era and the artists that arose during that time. Furthermore, studying literary periods promotes students’ critical and analytical skills, allowing them to understand and appreciate literature more holistically.
In conclusion, teaching students about literary periods is crucial for students to understand the cultural and historical context of literature. It helps students recognize the uniquely characteristic styles of poetry, prose, and other literary works in each period. Moreover, it develops analytical and critical thinking skills in students, preparing them to engage purposefully with literature. Thus, literary periods should remain a fundamental part of any literature curriculum today and in the future.