Great Books

Literature- is an art form which comes as Types of Prose

either oral or written record of man’s 1. Short story
thoughts, behavior, aspiration…. 2. Novel- form of short story
-Art is form and content. 3. Myth - origin
Form- Conventions, rhyme, rhythm, 4. Legends
measure, pattern, structure,etc 5. Folktales
Content- Themes, symbols 6. Parables
7. Fables - characters are animals
Two Literary Forms 8. Essay
Prose- All form of written or spoken
- Paragraph Literary Standards of Literature
- Free flowing 1. Universality
2. Artistry
Poetry- an arrangement of line in which 3. Intellectual value
form and content use to suggest meaning 4. Permanence
- Stanzas 5. Spiritual Value
- limited 6. Suggestiveness

Types of Poetry
1. Narrative POETICS of ARISTOTLE
A. Epic
i. Literary- 1 author What is the Poetics of Aristotle?
ii. Folk-commural 1. Aristotle's Poetics is a treatise on the art
authorship of literature written in c. 330 BC. In it,
B. Metrical Romance - nobility Aristotle focuses on the principles of poetry
of chivalry and drama, outlining what makes effective
C. Metrical Tale- realism storytelling and structuring plays and stories
D. Ballad to be more meaningful and engaging.
2. Lyric - common form of poetry
a. Ode- papuri B. Why did Aristotle write the Poetics?
b. Elegy- poem for death 1. Aristotle's main purpose in writing Poetics
c. Sonnet was to present and explain the fundamental
d. Song principles of art. Specifically, Poetics
-secular focuses on the art of poetry.
-sacred
e. Who is he?
f. Hymn 1. Aristotle was one of the greatest
g. Modern Ballad philosophers who ever lived and the first
3. Dramatic - performed on stage genuine scientist in history. He made
a. Tragedy pioneering contributions to all fields of
b. Comedy philosophy and science, he invented the
field of formal logic, and he identified the
various scientific disciplines and explored Katharsis- purging of fear and pity(emotion)
their relationships to each other. Hamartia- traffic flow
Aristotle was also a teacher and founded his Peripetia- reversal
own school in Athens, known as the Anagnorisis- realization
Lyceum.

B. How and why is he relevant to poetry? Iliad

1. The Poetics is in part Aristotle's response
to his teacher, Plato, who argues in The Homer (8th Century BCE)
Republic that poetry is representation of - Homer (8th Century BCE) Homer, a
mere appearances and is thus misleading legendary ancient Greek poet, is
and morally suspect. Aristotle's approach to traditionally believed to have lived in
the phenomenon of poetry is quite different the 8th century BCE.
from Plato's.
- He is known for composing two epic
What is poetry? poems, "The Iliad" and "The
a) According to Aristotle, poetry is in fact, a Odyssey," which are among the
kind of imitation, or as he calls it, ‘mimesis’, earliest and most influential works of
that employs language, rhythm, and Western literature.
harmony, either separately or in
combination. - Little is known about his life, and
there is debate among scholars
Medium, Object and Manner about his identity, whether he was a
a) Since Aristotle was a scientist, he single poet or a compilation of
approached Poetry from a scientific storytellers.
standpoint, mainly, he aimed to classify the
different kinds of poetry. To do this, in the - Homer's works were originally
Poetics, he identified three ways to recited orally and later transcribed
distinguish poetic works from each other. into written form.
The medium through which it is presented,
the objects of imitation, and the mode or - Homer composed his epics in
manner of imitation. Ancient Greek, using the dactylic
hexameter, a specific metrical
Types of poetry according to Aristotle pattern. His poetic style and use of
1. Epic Poetry- is the mimesis in verse told metaphors and similes have left an
in a narrative form. enduring impact on the art of
storytelling.
2. Tragedy- is largely similar to Epic Poetry,
however it differs in the mode of imitation, Key Characters of Iliad
since Epics are through narration and 1. Achilles: Achilles is the central
Tragedy; drama. character of the epic. He is a Greek
hero known for his exceptional
3. Comedy- According to Aristotle, comedy strength and combat skills.
is an imitation of inferior people. 2. Hector: Hector is the Trojan prince
and a noble warrior.
 3. Andromache: Andromache is 2. Jocasta- Mother of Oedipus and
Hector's wife and a symbol of the also his wife / Queen of Thebes.
suffering of Trojan civilians. 3. Laius- Father of Oedipus / King of
4. Paris: Paris is the Trojan prince who Thebes
elopes with Helen, sparking the war. 4. Oracle of Delphi- High priestess of
5. Odysseus: Although not the central the temple of Apollo / the one who
figure of "The Iliad," Odysseus is a told Laius about the prophecy, and
prominent Greek warrior and a key Oedipus' prophecy of killing his own
figure in the epic. father and marrying his own mother.
6. Agamemnon: Agamemnon is the 5. Polybus- King of Corinth / the one
leader of the Greek forces and the who adopted Oedipus.
brother of Menelaus, whose wife, 6. Creon- Oedipus' uncle / brother of
Helen, has been taken by Paris, a Jocasta/ Oedipus' brother-in-law.
Trojan prince. 7. Teiresias- Blind soothsayer /
7. Priam: Priam is the wise and elderly notorious clairvoyant.
king of Troy. 8. Sphinx- A creature with the head of
8. Helen: Helen, often referred to as a woman, body of a lioness, wings
"Helen of Troy,". of an eagle and a tail of a serpent.
9. Diomedes: Diomedes is a skilled 9. Antigone and Ismene- Daughters
Greek warrior known for his bravery of Oedipus and Jocasta.
and combat prowess. 10. Polynices and Eteocles- Sons of
10. Aeneas: Aeneas is a Trojan hero Oedipus and Jocasta.
who later becomes the central 11. Shepherd- Baptized the baby
character in Virgil's "Aeneid." In "The Oedipus "swollen feet“
Iliad," he is portrayed as a valiant
defender of Troy. Placed premiered: Theatre of Dionysus
11. Aphrodite: Aphrodite is the goddess Original language: Classical Greek
of love and beauty. She intervenes Genre: Tragedy
in the affairs of mortals, particularly Setting: Thebes
in the context of Helen and Paris. Series: Theban plays
Themes:
Themes of Iliad 1. Fate and free will
1. Honor and Pride 2. Wisdom and knowledge
2. Tragedy of War 3. Determination

Oedipus the King 3 Great Greek Tragedians

The first performance of Sophocles' Attic 1. Aeschylus
tragedy, Oedipus Rex, also known by its 2. Sophocles
Greek title Oedipus Tyrannus or Oedipus 3. Euripides
the King, took place about 429 BC.
Le Morte D’Arthur by Thomas Malory
Characters Le Morte d' Arthur, completed by Sir
1. Oedipus- Means "swollen feet" / Thomas Malory around 1469 and first
main character. printed in 1485.
The Author to Arthur’s birth. Although powerful,
- Sir Thomas Malory (c. 1415-1471 his own desires ultimately lead to his
CE) was an English knight during downfall.
the War of the Roses (1455-1487 5. Morgan Le Fay- Arthur’s half-sister
CE). and a skilled sorceress, often uses
- Thomas Malory of Newbold Revell her magic to oppose Arthur and the
was the best candidate. knights, causing significant turmoil
- Spent many years in prison Wrote and instability in Camelot.
Le Morte d’ Arthur in prison Le Morte 6. Vivien (Nimue)- Nimue, a powerful
d’ Arthur was published after his enchantress and one of the Damsels
death by William Caxton. of the Lake, captivates Merlin with
her charm and magic. Her
About the Book relationship with him leads to his
- The first book brings all the stories downfall, as she learns his secrets
from Arthurian legend. and ultimately traps him
- Original title: The Hoole Book of 7. Sir Galahad- Sir Galahad, the son
Kyng Arthur & of his Noble Knights of Sir Lancelot, is a knight of
of the Round Table exceptional purity and spiritual
- Written during the War of the Roses. dedication.
- Completed around 1469; first printed 8. Sir Mordred- Mordred is Arthur's
in 1485 illegitimate son from an incestuous
- Composed of 8 Books. relationship. He is destined to kill
- Caxton separated Malory’s book into Arthur.
21 books.
Hamlet
Key Characters: The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark
1. King Arthur- Arthur, son of Uther (Hamlet)
and Igraine, is destined to unify
England by pulling the sword from Shakespeare's longest play, Hamlet, tells
the stone. He embodies royal virtue, the story of Prince Hamlet of Denmark, who
bravery, and the fulfillment of is driven to avenge his father's murder by
prophecy. his uncle Claudius, who has seized the
2. Queen Guenevere- Arthur’s wife throne and married Hamlet's mother,
and Lancelot’s lover, Guinevere, Gertrude. The play explores themes of
stays politically loyal to Arthur but is revenge, madness, mortality, and the
deeply in love with Launcelot. consequences of political corruption.
3. Sir Lancelot- Sir Lancelot is one of
the most skilled and honorable Who Was Shakespeare?
knights of the Round Table, known - William Shakespeare, an iconic
for his bravery, loyalty, and English playwright, poet, and actor,
adherence to the chivalric code. is often considered the greatest
4. Merlin- The sorcerer who foretells writer in the English language and
Arthur’s destiny and orchestrates the world’s preeminent dramatist.
Uther’s marriage to Igraine, leading
 - Born in 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, love. Ophelia is a sweet and innocent young
England. Over his lifetime, he wrote girl, who obeys her father and her brother,
approximately 39 plays, 154 Laertes.
sonnets, and two long narrative 6. Laertes - Polonius’s son and Ophelia’s
poems. brother, a young man who spends much of
Notable Works the play in France.
Tragedies: "Hamlet," "Macbeth," "Othello," 7. The Ghost - The specter of Hamlet’s
"King Lear," "Romeo and Juliet," "Julius recently deceased father.
Caesar" 8. Horatio - Hamlet’s close friend, who
Comedies: "A Midsummer Night's Dream," studied with the prince at the university in
"Twelfth Night," "As You Like It," "Much Ado Wittenberg. Horatio is loyal and helpful to
About Nothing" Hamlet throughout the play.
Histories: "Henry IV," "Henry V," "Richard 9. Fortinbras - The young Prince of Norway
III" 10. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern - Two
slightly bumbling courtiers, former friends of
Genre and Settings of the Play Hamlet from Wittenberg.
1. Genre: Tragedy 11. Marcellus and Bernardo - The officers
2. Setting: Elsinore Castle, Denmark who first see the ghost walking the ramparts
The majority of the play takes place in and of Elsinore.
around Elsinore Castle, the royal palace of
Denmark. While Elsinore is a real town PHAEDRA By Jean-Baptiste Racine
(known as Helsingr in Danish) located
between Denmark and Sweden, the actual - Born December 21, 1639, Racine
castle in the town is called Kronborg Castle. became a key figure in French
classical tragedy.
Characters of the Play - Gained fame with Andromaque and
1. Hamlet - The Prince of Denmark, and the later wrote major works like
protagonist. About thirty years old at the Britannicus, Berenice, Iphigenie, and
start of the play, Hamlet is the son of Queen Phaedra.
Gertrude and the late King Hamlet, and the - Known for characters driven by
nephew of the present king, Claudius. intense passion, especially his
2. Claudius - The King of Denmark, powerful portrayal of women.
Hamlet’s uncle, and the play’s antagonist. - Returned to drama in 1689 with
3. Gertrude - The Queen of Denmark, Esther and Athalie after a brief
Hamlet’s mother, recently married to hiatus.
Claudius. - In Phaedra, he added depth by
4. Polonius - The Lord Chamberlain of altering character relationships and
Claudius’s court, a pompous, conniving old roles.
man. Polonius is the father of Laertes and
Ophelia. JEAN-BAPTISTE RACINE (1639-1699)
5. Ophelia - Polonius’s daughter, a beautiful - One of the greatest French
young woman with whom Hamlet has been playwrights, renowned for his
in tragedies.
Education: Studied at the prestigious cause major conflicts and irreversible
Jansenist school of Port-Royal. damage.
Influences: Deeply influenced by classical Honor and Reputation: Characters are
literature and the strict moral teachings of very concerned with their honor and how
Jansenism. their actions affect their reputation. The play
explores how struggles to maintain personal
Major Characters and family honor can lead to disaster.

1. PHAEDRA- The tragic heroine, torn I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud

between her illicit love for Hippolytus
and her sense of honor and duty. "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud" or often
2. HIPPOLYTUS- The virtuous and referred to as "Daffodils" is one of the most
chaste stepson of Phaedra, who famous and best-loved poems written in the
becomes an innocent victim of her English language. It was composed by
passion. Romantic poet William Wordsworth around
3. THESEUS- The king, husband to 1804, though he subsequently revised it—
Phaedra, whose return triggers the the final and most familiar version of the
tragic events. poem was published in 1815.
4. ARICIA- A young woman of noble
birth, loved by Hippolytus and The poem is based on one of Wordsworth's
caught in the web of Phaedra's own walks in the countryside of England's
jealousy. Lake District. During this walk, he and his
5. OENONE- Phaedra's nurse, whose sister encountered a long strip of daffodils.
misguided loyalty leads to the false In the poem, these daffodils have a
accusation against Hippolytus. long-lasting effect on the speaker.
Wordsworth describes a moment when he
Themes: comes across a "crowd" of golden daffodils
Passion and Guilt: Phaedra's intense by a lake.
feelings for her stepson, Hippolytus, cause
her great inner conflict and guilt. Her The poem is often referred to as
actions, driven by these feelings, lead to "Daffodils" as the poem's central image
tragic events and show how powerful and and theme revolve around a field of
destructive unchecked desire can be. daffodils that the speaker encounters.
Fate and Divine Justice: The play shows
how the will of the gods and the inevitability The daffodils are the most vivid and
of fate shape the characters’ lives, often memorable element of the poem,
leading to tragic outcomes. It highlights that symbolizing beauty, joy, and the power of
no matter how hard people try, they can't nature to uplift the human spirit.
escape their destined paths.
Deception and Lies: Lies and William Wordsworth (1770–1850)
misunderstandings between characters - was a major English Romantic poet,
create problems and drive the story towards best known for his works that
tragedy. The play demonstrates how emphasized the beauty of nature,
falsehoods and poor communication can
 the depth of human emotions, and "fluttering" in the breeze, which brings them
the importance of imagination. to life and reflects their joyous impact on the
- Wordsworth's poetry often focused speaker.
on the natural landscape, particularly
the Lake District in England, where Alliteration
he spent much of his life. His works The repetition of the same consonant
explore themes of nature, memory, sounds in the same lines of poetry.
childhood, and the human "I gazed and gazed" – The repetition of the
experience. /g/ sound emphasizes the poet's
continuous, thoughtful observation of the
Rhyme Scheme daffodils.
The poem is composed of four stanzas
of six lines each. Assonance
The repetition of vowel sounds in the same
It is an adherent to the quatrain-couplet line, such as the sound of /a/ in “Ten
rhyme scheme, A-B-A-B-C-C. Every line thousand I saw at a glance” and /e/ sound in
conforms to iambic tetrameter. “They stretched in never-ending.”

Example from the first stanza: Consonance

A: I wandered lonely as a cloud In “what wealth the show to me had
B: That floats on high o'er vales and hills, brought,” the repeated /t/ sound in “what,”
A: When all at once I saw a crowd, “wealth,” and “brought” creates a firm,
B: A host, of golden daffodils; rhythmic ending.
C: Beside the lake, beneath the trees,
C: Fluttering and dancing in the breeze. Imagery
Uses vivid descriptions to create strong
Literary Devices visual images, such as "A host of golden
daffodils" and "Continuous as the stars that
Simile shine." These images help the reader
"I wandered lonely as a cloud." Here, the picture the scene and understand the
speaker compares himself to a cloud emotional impact it has on the speaker.
floating aimlessly in the sky, expressing a
feeling of isolation and detachment from the Hyperbole
world. Wordsworth uses exaggeration when
describing the number of daffodils, saying
Metaphor there were "Ten thousand" at a glance. This
"A host of golden daffodils": The word "host" exaggeration emphasizes the overwhelming
metaphorically portrays the flowers as a and uplifting effect the flowers have on him.
large, welcoming group, symbolizing
abundance and unity. ODE TO A NIGHTINGALE
- written by John Keats in the spring
Personification of 1819 (May 1819)
Wordsworth personifies the daffodils, - Consists of 80 lines
describing them as "dancing" and
 - Considered as the longest odes of ● Originally accompanied by music
Keats ● Odes are often ceremonial, and
- Focuses on a speaker standing in a formal in tone.
dark forest, listening to the beguiling ● Odes often address an intense
and beautiful song of the nightingale emotion at the onset of a personal
bird. crisis or celebrate an object or image
that leads to revelation
John Keats
- Born on October 31, 1795 and died Three Types of Odes
on February 23, 1821 1. Pindaric Ode: this form features a
- English Romantic lyric poet whose structure of stanzas with a
verse is known for its vivid imagery consistent pattern, often addressing
and great sensuous appeal. a specific event or individual.
- Best known for works such as 2. Horatian Ode: this form is more
‘Endymion’, ‘Bright Star’, and his personal and reflective, often written
1819 odes including ‘Ode to a in a more conversational and
Grecian Urn’ ‘Ode to a Nightingale’ contemplative tone. (ex. Ode to a
and ‘To Autumn’ nightingale)
3. Irregular Ode: This form doesn't
Background adhere to a specific stanzaic pattern,
- Nightingale - a small bird, belonging allowing more freedom in expression
to the Thrush family, a nightingale is and structure.
known for its beautiful & powerful
song. Structure of Poem
- A nightingale had built a nest close Rhyme Scheme and Meter
to the house. Keats was so - ABABCDECDE rhyme scheme
influenced by the song of that - The poem is written in iambic
nightingale, and he felt utter joy in pentameter, which means each line
her song. One morning he took his has ten syllables with a pattern of
chair from the breakfast table to the unstressed and stressed syllables
grass plot under a plum tree, where Line and Stanza Structure
he sat for 2-3 hours and wrote this - Consist of 10 lines and 8 stanzas
poem. - This 10 lines consists of
Shakepearean quatrain (abab) and a
- Written in Early Modern English petrarchan sestet (cdecde)
- It was first published in Annals of the
Fine Arts Main Themes
Death and Mortality:
What is an Ode? The poem reflects on how life is temporary
An ode is a lyric poem that usually praises a and how everyone must face death.
person, animal, object, or occasion. It may Nature, Beauty, and Art
also praise universal themes. It expresses a The nightingale represents the beauty of
great depth of feeling towards and an nature and art. Its song is timeless, and
appreciation for the subject Keats admires how it can bring joy and
escape from the harsh realities of life.
Consciousness, Loneliness, and themes of darkness, suspense, and the
Isolation supernatural.
Keats feels separated from the nightingale’s
carefree world. He longs to escape his own Notable Works
mind, which is full of worries, pain, and A. Poems
loneliness. - To Helen (1831)
- The Raven (1845)
The Cask of Amontillado - Annabel Lee (1849)
"The Cask of Amontillado," a short story by B. Short Story
Edgar Allan Poe first published in - The Tell- Tale Heart (1843)
Godey’s Lady’s Book in November 1846. - The Cask of Amontillado (1846)
● This story is about a man who desires - The Fall of the House Usher (1839)
revenge on someone else because of the
insults he received. Key Characters
● This story is one of Edgar Allan Poe’s Montresor
best-known works, famous for its chilling - He is intelligent, manipulative, and
depiction of human malice and cold-hearted. Montresor holds a deep
manipulation. grudge against Fortunato for an unspecified
insult. His pride in his family’s honor drives
Edgar Allan Poe him to seek revenge in a planned and
- Edgar Allan Poe was a 19th-century ruthless way. Despite his calm demeanor,
American writer, poet, and editor. Montresor is filled with dark intentions.
- Best known for his short stories and Fortunato
poems. - He is a wealthy, arrogant man who prides
- His works often featured mystery himself on his knowledge of wine. Fortunato
and horror. is confident in his expertise and enjoys
- Credited with helping create the showing off his superiority. This arrogance
modern detective story makes him blind to the danger Montresor
- Born: January 19, 1809 poses.
- Died: October 7, 1849
- Birthplace: Boston, Massachusetts Themes
- Spouse: Virginia Clemm Poe Revenge
(married 1836-1847) - Montresor's relentless pursuit of
vengeance consumes him, driving him to
Master of the Macabre commit a brutal act.
- Poe, known for his dark, atmospheric Pride
tales, was a master of the macabre. - Both Montresor and Fortunato display a
He explored themes of death, madness, sense of superiority, fueling their conflict.
and the human psyche with haunting Deception
intensity. - The story is filled with layers of deception,
Gothic Literature from Montresor's false promises to
- He was heavily influenced by the gothic Fortunato's misguided trust.
literature of the era, drawing inspiration from
 Symbolism in the Story reveals a disturbed mind obsessed with
The Cask revenge.
- Represents the lure of temptation and the 2. First-Person Perspective
allure of a false sense of security. - The reader is privy to Montresor's thoughts
The Catacombs and feelings, allowing for a deep exploration
- Symbolize the darkness, secrecy, and of his psychological state.
hidden depths of the human psyche. 3. Limited Perspective
The Chains - We only see the events through
- Represent the chains of revenge and the Montresor's eyes, leaving Fortunato's side
imprisonment of both Montresor and of the story untold.
Fortunato.
The Walls 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐫 by Pablo Neruda
- Symbolize the barriers between people Pablo Neruda (1904–
and the isolation that can lead to destructive 1973), born as Ricardo Eliecer
actions. Neftalí Reyes Basoalto on July 12, 1904,
Family Crest (A golden foot crushing a in Parral, Chile, is considered one of the
serpent) most important literary figures of the 20th
- The motto "Nemo me impune lacessit" (No century. He began using the pen name
one provokes me with impunity) on Pablo Neruda in his youth to keep his
Montresor's family crest reflects his identity as a poet a secret. His poetic career
unwavering commitment to revenge. began with Crepusculario (1923), but it was
The Trowel Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair
- A symbol of Montresor's plans for revenge (1924) that truly brought him recognition.
and his use of deceit in carrying out the This work captures themes of love and loss
revenge. with an emotional depth that made it
relatable to readers worldwide. In 1971,
Irony and Foreshadowing Neruda was awarded the Nobel Prize in
A. Dramatic Irony Literature, solidifying his status as a literary
- The reader is aware of Montresor's true giant.
intentions, while Fortunato remains
oblivious. Background of the Poem
B. Situational Irony "Your Laughter" is one of Pablo Neruda’s
- Fortunato, a man known for his love of most intimate poems, reflecting his deep
wine, ironically becomes trapped in a tomb. affection for his third wife, Matilde Urrutia.
C. Foreshadowing Written as a tribute to her, the poem
- Early hints, like Montresor's insistence on emphasizes how her laughter became a
the family motto, foreshadow the tragedy to symbol of solace and strength for the poet.
come. Matilde was not only his beloved but also
his muse, inspiring Neruda during a period
Narrator Point of View of intense personal and political struggle.
1. Unreliable Narrator
- Montresor, the story's narrator, is
unreliable. His account is biased and
 Poem Structure Contrast: The poem contrasts the
Free Verse Format speaker’s struggles with the uplifting power
"Your Laughter" is crafted in free verse, of laughter, highlighting the coexistence of
enabling Neruda to convey his emotions joy and pain in human life.
without the limitations of a strict rhyme
scheme or meter. This structure reflects the Themes of the Poem
fluid and natural essence of laughter. The - Laughter as Survival
use of enjambment allows lines to flow The poem emphasizes laughter as an
seamlessly into one another, creating a essential force that helps the speaker
dynamic rhythm that mirrors the speaker’s survive life’s difficulties. It becomes more
emotional journey. The free verse format than just a reaction to happiness,
enhances the poem’s raw emotional power, representing a vital source of emotional
with each line building upon the last to sustenance.
convey an intense longing. The absence of
a rigid structure permits Neruda to deeply - Love and Suffering
explore the speaker’s need for laughter, Neruda explores the intersection of love and
resulting in a spontaneous and authentic pain, showing how laughter acts as a refuge
expression of feeling. from suffering. The speaker’s love for the
beloved’s laughter is what helps him endure
Literary Devices his struggles.
Imagery: Neruda employs vivid imagery
throughout the poem, comparing laughter to - Joy and Celebration
flowers, water, and the sky. This use of Laughter is depicted as a transformative
sensory language helps the reader visualize force, capable of bringing light and
the life-sustaining power of laughter. happiness even in dark times.

Metaphor: Laughter is compared to a “fresh - Intimacy and Connection

sword,” symbolizing its strength and ability The speaker’s deep emotional connection to
to protect the speaker from life’s challenges. the beloved’s laughter reflects the
importance of shared joy in relationships.
Personification: Laughter is given
human-like qualities, such as the ability to - Nature and the Human Experience
“enter” and “rise,” making it an active force Neruda uses imagery from the natural world
in the speaker’s life. to reinforce the theme that laughter, like
nature, is a life-giving force.
Repetition: The repeated pleas for laughter
emphasize its critical importance to the The Color Purple by Alice Walker
speaker’s survival. Written by: Alice Walker
Published in: 1982
Symbolism: Laughter serves as a symbol Genre: Epistolary fiction, domestic novel
of hope and resilience, standing for Setting: Rural Georgia, United States,
more than just a reaction to joy. between 1909 and 1947
Main Character: Celie, a poor, uneducated structure, and coherent themes that
African-American girl who faces severe reflect the complexities of emotions
oppression and abuse. and relationships.
- Novels can encompass a wide range
About the Author of genres, including romance,
Alice Walker Born: February 9, 1944, in mystery, historical fiction, and more,
Eatonton, Georgia allowing for diverse storytelling
Occupation: Novelist, short story writer, techniques and perspectives.
poet, and social activist - The term "novel" originates from
Notable Work: The Color Purple (1982), the Italian word novella, meaning
which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and "new," which highlights the form's
the National Book Award in 1983. focus on fresh narratives and
original ideas.
Background - As a significant literary form, novels
The Color Purple, written by Alice Walker have evolved over centuries and
and published in 1982, emerged from her continue to captivate readers by
reflections on her own life experiences and providing immersive experiences
the broader African American struggle that illuminate various aspects of life
against double oppression—discrimination and society.
from both white society and Black men.
Influenced by her upbringing in Georgia and Types of Novels
the social movements of the 1960s and Literary Fiction
1970s, Walker sought to highlight the - Focuses on character development
resilience and beauty found in life's and thematic depth rather than plot.
struggles. The title symbolizes the - Often explores complex human
overlooked beauty of God's creation, experiences and emotions.
emphasizing the importance of recognizing - Examples: The Great Gatsby by F.
joy amidst suffering. Through the epistolary Scott Fitzgerald, To Kill a
format of letters written by the protagonist, Mockingbird by Harper Lee.
Celie, the novel powerfully portrays her
emotional journey from oppression to Historical Fiction
empowerment, making it a significant - Set in a specific historical period,
commentary o n r a c e , g e n d e r , and blending factual events with fictional
self-acceptance within the African American characters and narratives.
community. - Aims to provide insight into the past
while entertaining readers.
What is a Novel? - Examples: The Book Thief by
- A novel is a long, fictional narrative Markus Zusak, All the Light We
written in prose that typically Cannot See by Anthony Doerr.
explores human experiences
through a connected sequence of Mystery/Thriller
events. - Involves suspenseful plots centered
- It is characterized by well-developed around crime, investigation, or
characters, an engaging plot uncovering secrets.
 - Engages readers through twists and trauma that affects her and those around
turns that keep them guessing until her.
the end.
- Examples: Gone Girl by Gillian Self-Discovery and Empowerment:
Flynn, The Girl with the Dragon Celie's journey from a passive victim to an
Tattoo by Stieg Larsson. empowered woman is central to the
Science Fiction narrative. Through her relationships with
- Explores futuristic concepts, other women, particularly Shug Avery and
advanced technology, space Nettie, she learns to assert her identity and
exploration, and often examines the reclaim her life.
impact of science on society.
- Encourages readers to think critically Race and Racism: The story addresses the
about possibilities beyond current impact of racism on the lives of Black
realities. individuals in the South, illustrating how
- Examples: Dune by Frank Herbert, systemic oppression shapes their
Neuromancer by William Gibson. experiences. Celie's struggle with her
self-image is tied to her perception of race
Fantasy and beauty.
- Features magical elements, mythical
creatures, and imaginary worlds. God and Spirituality: Celie's letters to God
- Often includes themes of good reflect her evolving understanding of faith.
versus evil and heroism. Initially viewing God as a distant figure, she
- Examples: The Lord of the Rings by eventually connects with a more personal
J.R.R. Tolkien, Harry Potter and the and encompassing spirituality that
Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling. celebrates life and beauty.

Romance Female Solidarity and Relationships: The

- Centers on romantic relationships bonds between women are crucial in the
between characters, often with novel, showcasing how female friendships
emotional conflicts and resolutions. provide support and strength. The
- Typically concludes with a happy or relationships between Celie, Shug, Sofia,
satisfying ending. and Nettie illustrate the importance of
- Examples: Pride and Prejudice by solidarity in overcoming adversity.
Jane Austen, The Notebook by
Nicholas Sparks. Sexuality and Identity: The exploration of
sexuality is significant, particularly through
Main Themes: Celie's relationship with Shug. The novel
presents a loving depiction of queer
Violence and Suffering: The novel relationships, challenging traditional notions
portrays various forms of violence, including of gender and sexual identity.
familial abuse, domestic violence, and
societal oppression faced by Black women. Hope and Resilience: Despite the
Celie's experiences highlight the cycle of hardships faced by the characters, The
Color Purple ultimately conveys a message
of hope. The resilience shown by Celie and Non-Linear Timeline
other women emphasizes the possibility of The narrative unfolds non-linearly, with
healing and personal growth in the face of Celie's letters spanning several years. This
adversity. structure allows for flashbacks and
reflections that deepen character
Narrative Style: development and thematic exploration.
Epistolary Format Readers gain insight into Celie's past while
The Color Purple is structured as an following her present journey.
epistolary novel, consisting primarily of
letters written by the protagonist, Celie. This Multiple Perspectives
format allows readers to gain intimate While primarily focused on Celie, the
access to Celie's thoughts, emotions, a inclusion of Nettie’s letters offers an
personal connection between her and the alternative perspective on events and
audience. themes. This dual narrative enriches the
story by providing context, revealing hidden
First-Person Perspective truths, and highlighting the
The use of the first-person point of view interconnectedness of the characters' lives.
immerses readers in Celie's inner world. Her
voice is raw and authentic, reflecting her Emotional Depth
struggles and growth. This perspective Walker’s narrative style conveys profound
allows readers to experience her pain, joy, emotional depth, allowing readers to
and transformation firsthand, enhancing empathize with Celie's struggles and
emotional engagement with her journey. triumphs. The intimate nature of the letters
fosters a sense of vulnerability, making
Stream of Consciousness Celie's journey toward empowerment all the
Walker employs a stream-of-consciousness more impactful.
technique in Celie's letters, capturing her
thoughts as they flow naturally. This style Symbolic Use of Letters
conveys the immediacy of her feelings and The letters themselves serve as a symbol of
experiences, allowing readers to witness communication, connection, and personal
her emotional state and evolution growth. As Celie learns to express herself
throughout the narrative. through writing, her letters become a
powerful tool for self-discovery and healing,
Dialect and Language illustrating the transformative power of
The novel features African American storytelling.
Vernacular English (AAVE), which adds
authenticity to the characters' voices and Characters:
cultural context. Walker's use of dialect 1. Celie
enriches the narrative by providing a sense 2. Nettie
of place and identity, making Celie's 3. Squeak (Mary Agnes)
experiences more relatable and grounded. 4. Shug Avery
5. Sofia
6. Harpo
7. Mister (Albert)
 Symbolism Celie's longing for independence and the
The Color Purple ability to soar above her circumstances. The
Represents beauty, resilience, and the imagery of flight reflects themes of escape
appreciation of life. Celie learns to and self-discovery.
recognize the beauty in her surroundings
and experiences, symbolizing her journey Celie's Quilt
toward self-acceptance and empowerment. The quilt symbolizes community, heritage,
The color serves as a reminder to and the interconnectedness of women’s
appreciate the joys of life, even amidst experiences. As Celie learns to sew, she
suffering. also weaves together her memories and
relationships with other women. The quilt
Letters represents the strength found in female
Celie's letters to God and later to Nettie solidarity and shared histories.
symbolize her search for connection,
understanding, and voice. Writing becomes Nature
a means of expressing her innermost Nature serves as a backdrop for Celie's
thoughts and feelings, allowing her to transformation. The natural world
articulate her pain and hopes. The act of symbolizes growth, healing, and the beauty
writing empowers Celie and serves as a of life that Celie learns to appreciate over
vehicle for her personal growth. time. References to flowers, trees, and
landscapes reflect her journey toward
Pants self-awareness and fulfillment.
The pants that Celie creates symbolize
independence and defiance against
traditional gender roles. When she starts
Literary Periods Historical Timeline
making and selling pants, it represents her Ancient Greek & Roman Civilizations (800
break from the constraints of femininity BC- 500 AD)
imposed by society. Pants become a - Characterized by a deep exploration
symbol of her newfound strength and of human experience, moral and
autonomy. ethical questions, heroic narratives,
and the influence of the divine.
Shug Avery's Song Events & Movements
Shug's music symbolizes freedom, joy, and - Greek Civilization (300-800 BC)
self-expression. Her songs inspire Celie to - Roman Empire (300 BC-476 AD)
embrace her own identity and sexuality, Literary Style
encouraging her to find her voice. Music - Oral Traditions
serves as a transformative force in Celie's - Earliest myths & legends
life, representing the power of art to heal - Epic & Didactic Poetry
and uplift. - Philosophy & History
- Drama – comedies & tragedies
The Bird - Pastoral & Lyric Poetry
The bird symbolizes freedom and the desire Literary Themes
for liberation from oppression. Throughout - Heroism & Individualism
the novel, references to birds highlight - Human Experience & Emotions
- Political & Social Structures
- Tension b/w Fate & Free Will
- Moral & Ethical Questions
- Gods & Divine Influence
Ex. - The Poetics by Aristotle - Cultural Activity Flourished
- The Iliad by Homer - William Shakespeare (1564-1616)
- Oedipus the King by Sophocles Literary Style
- Diverse Drama Genres
- Complex Characters
Medieval Literature (5th Century – late 15th - Rich Poetic Language
Century) - Sonnet Form
- Characterized by religious themes, - Themes of Human Condition
chivalric ideals, allegorical - Soliloquies & Asides
storytelling, and the feudal and - Historical Realism
hierarchical social structure.
- Allegory & Symbolism
Events & Movements
Literary Themes
- Fall of the Western Roman Empire
(476 CE) - Power & Politics
- Spread of Christianity - Love & Romance
- Rise of Feudalism - Appearance vs. Reality
- The Carolingian Renaissance (8th-9th - Order vs. Chaos
centuries) Ex. Hamlet
- The Crusades (11-13th centuries) The Jacobean Era
- The Black Death (1347-1351) The Jobean Period (1603-1625)
- Hundred Year’s War (1337-1453) - Characterized by dark and complex
Literary Style themes, revenge tragedies,
metaphysical poetry, and
- Oral Traditions
development of prose and dramatic
- Biblical Allusions arts.
- Heroic Epics & Romances Events & Movements
- Idealized Mythical Settings - James, I reigned (1603-1625)
- Vernacular Languages - Gunpowder Plot (1605)
- Verse & Rhyme - Religious tensions b/w Anglicans &
- Epic & Heroic Narratives Puritans
- Interwoven Tales - King James Bible (1611)
- Mystical & Supernatural Elements - Theatres closed (1642-1660)
Literary Themes - Colonization & Exploration
- Religious & Devotion - Mercantilism & Early Capitalism
- Chivalry & Courtly Love Literary Style
- Heroism & Adventure - Dark & Morbid Imagery
- Fate & Fortune - Complex & Elaborate Language
Ex. Le Morte D’ Arthur - Dramatic Irony & Tragicomedy
- Metaphysical Poetry
Elizabethan Period (1558-1603) - Masques & Courtly Spectacle
- Characterized by a flourishing of - Religious & Philosophical Prose
English culture, the prolific output of - Satire & Social Critiques
playwrights & the emergence of new - Symbolism & Allegory
poetic forms.
Literary Themes
Events & Movements
- Revenge & Retribution
- Elizabeth, I reigned (1558-1603)
- Mortality & the Transience of Life
- The Spanish Amanda (1588)
- Power & Corruption
- Exploration & Colonization
- Gender & Sexuality
- The Renaissance
- The Printing Press
Enlightenment (17th -late 18th century)
- Social Stratification
 - Characterized by an emphasis on - Historical Novel
reason, science, and pursuit of - Influences from Mythology, Folklore &
knowledge, as well as a focus on the Supernatural
individual rights, social progress, and - Focus on ‘outside’ or marginalized
the critique of traditional authority. characters
Literary Themes
Events & Movements - Nature & Environment
- The Enlightenment - Skepticism of Science & Technology
- Scientific Revolution - Freedom & Individualism
- American Revolution (1775-1783) - Nationalism
- French Revolution (1789-1799)
- First Fleet arrived Australia (1788) The Victorian Period (19th century)
- Rise of the Middle Class - Characterized by a complex interplay
- Expansion of the British Empire of social realism, moral earnestness,
- Development of the Novel and a reflection of the societal
Literary Style changes brought about by
- Novel as dominant literary form industrialization, urbanization, and
- Neoclassical Literature colonial expansion.
- Satire Events & Movements
- Victoria, reigned (1837-901)
- Heroic Couplet Poetry
- The Great Exhibition (1851)
- Essays & Philosophical Treatises
- Moral & Didactic Literature - Industrial Revolution
- Labour rights, women;s suffrage, child
- Realism
labour laws
- Sentimentalism
- Reform Acts 1832, 1867 & 1884
Literary Themes
- American Civil War 1861-1865 &
- Reason & Enlightenment slavery abolished 1865
- Social Critique & Satire - Darwin’s Theory of Evolution
- Moral & Ethical Concerns - Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood
- Individualism & Personal Identity Literary Style
Ex. Phaedra - Realism & social Critique
- Moral purpose & Didacticism
Romanticism (late 18th -mid 19th century) - Psychological Realism
- Characterized by a focus on - Symbolism & Allegory
emotion, imagination and
- Gothic & Sensationalism
individualism, and a rejection of
rationalism and order. - The Bildungsroman Novel
Events & Movements - Irony & Satire
- French Revolution (1789-1799) - Epistolary Forms
- Regency Period (1811-1820) - Rich descriptive detail
- Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815) - Formal language & Elevated Style
- Industrial Revolution Literary Themes
- Slavery Abolished by British Empire - Social Critique & Reform
(1834) - Morality & Ethics
- Rise in Nationalism - Love, Marriage & Family
- Australian Colonies Established - Identify & Self-Discovery
Literary Style
- Ode & Lyric Poetry Modernism (late 19th – mid 20th century)
- Emphasis on Emotion & Feeling - Characterized by a break from
- Fantastical & Visionary Imagery traditional literary conventions and a
focus on experimentation,
 fragmentation, and subjectivity. - Parody, Pastiche, and Satire
Events & Movements - Free Verse Poetry
- World War I (1914-1918) - Informal & Colloquial Speech
- Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) - Multiple Voices & Perspectives
- World War II (1939-1945) - Absurdist Theatre
- Industrialization & Urbanization Literary Themes
- The Roaring Twenties - Identity & Selfhood
- The Harlem Renaissance - Power & Authority
- Expressionism & Surrealism - Existentialism & Absurdity
- Existentialism & Absurdism - Consumerism & Culture
Literary Style
- Stream of consciousness Post – Colonialism (mid 20th century
- Unreliable Narrators onwards)
- Non-linear Structures - Characterized by a critique of
- Multiple Perspectives colonialism, the reclamation of
- Free Verse Poetry indigenous voices, exploration of
cultural hybridity and advocacy for
- Taboo Subjects social justice and liberation.
- Unconventional Syntax, Imagery, Events & Movements
and Symbolism
- Decolonization Movements- Africa,
Literary Themes Asia & the Caribbean
- Societal Alienation - American Civil Rights Movement
- Brutality & Futility of War - Anti-Apartheid Movement
- African American Experience - Independence Movements in Asia –
- Subjectivity & Relativity India, Indonesia, Vietnam etc.
- Cultural Renaissance
Post- Modernism (mid- 20th century - Globalization
onwards) - Australian Aboriginal People counted
- Characterized by a rejection of grand in census from 1967
narratives, an embrace of Literary Style
fragmentation, metafiction,
- Oral Tradition & Storytelling
intertextuality, and a skepticism
towards absolute truth and authority - Linguistic Hybridity
Events & Movements - Strong Criticism of Colonial Powers &
- Vietnam War (1959-1975) Exploitation of Indigenous Peoples
- Cold War 1945 & Nuclear Anxiety - Pidgin, Creole or Vernacular
- Magical Realism & Folkloric Elements
- Civil Rights Movement 50s-60s
- Feminist Movement 60s-70s - Non-linear Narrative Structures
- Metafictions & Intertextuality
- TV, mass media & internet
Literary Themes
- Australian Immigration from Europe
& South East Asia - Identity & Cultural Hybridity
- Decolonization & Globalization - Power & Resistance
- Environmentalism - Colonial Violence & Trauma
- Counter Cultural Movements - Language & Representation
Literary Style
- Metafiction Feminism ( late 19th – early 20th century)
- Fragmented Narratives, Disjointed - Characterized by advocacy for gender
Plots & Non-Linear Storytelling equality, representation of women’s
experiences and critique of patriarchal
- Intertextuality & Allusions
structures.
- Ambiguity & Lack of Closure
Events & Movements
 - First-wave Feminism Literary Themes
World War II (1939-1945) – - Identity & Belonging
movement into male professions - Social Justice & inequality
- Second- wave Feminism 60’-70’ - Memory & trauma
- Third-wave feminism 1900s - Impact of Technology
- Women’s Liberation Movement
- Birth Control Pill introduced 1960s
- Increase in female authors Roe V.
Wade 1973
Literary Style
- Unconventional Narrative Structures
& Experimentation with narrative
POV
- Multiple Perspectives
- Foregrounding women’s subjectivity
- Interrogation of Language &
Representation
- Diverse Voices
- Subversion of genre conventions
Literary Themes
- Gender Inequality & Patriarchy
- Female Empowerment & Agency
- Body Politics & Reproductive Rights
- Intersectionality & Diversity

Contemporary Period (current day)

- Characterized by diverse voices,
experimentation with form and
narrative techniques, and
engagement with social, cultural, and
political issues of the present day.
Events & Movements
- Civil Rights Movement & Black
liberation struggles e.g.
#BlackLivesMatter
- Feminist Movements e.g. #MeToo
- Globalization & Transnationalism
- Environmentalism & Climate Change
- Digital Media & Culture
- Human Rights & Social Justice
Literary Style
- Fragmented Narratives, Non-linear
Structures & Multiple Perspectives
- Metafiction
- Hybrid Genres
- Language Play & Linguistic
Innovation
- Intertextuality & Allusion
- Multimodality & Digital Forms
- Diverse Voices