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M.A English uos grw campus, 10, Gujranwala (2025)

11/12/2023

Age of Chaucer (1343-1400)

- Geoffrey Chaucer, born around 1343, is often regarded as the “Father of English Literature” and a key figure in the Middle English period.
- The Age of Chaucer spans the 14th century, marked by significant historical, social, and cultural changes.
Historical Context:
- The 14th century witnessed the aftermath of the Black Death, causing demographic shifts and social upheavals.
- Political instability, including the Hundred Years’ War between England and France, influenced the collective psyche of the time.
Chaucer’s Life:
- Geoffrey Chaucer’s life was embedded in the courtly and bureaucratic circles. He served in various capacities, including a diplomat and customs official.
- His exposure to diverse social classes and experiences is reflected in his literary works.

Literary Contributions:
- Chaucer’s most famous work, “The Canterbury Tales,” is a collection of stories told by pilgrims on a journey. It provides a vivid snapshot of medieval English society.
- “Troilus and Criseyde” explores themes of love and chivalry, showcasing Chaucer’s narrative prowess and psychological insight.
- He also contributed to lyric poetry, creating poignant verses that expressed the complexities of human emotions.

Language and Style
- Chaucer played a crucial role in shaping the English language. His works contributed significantly to the evolution of Middle English, bridging the gap between Old and Modern English.
- His writing showcased linguistic versatility, incorporating elements from French, Latin, and Italian, reflecting the cosmopolitan nature of the age.
Social Critique and Realism:
- Chaucer’s writings often presented a satirical view of societal norms and institutions. His characters in “The Canterbury Tales” represent a cross-section of medieval society, providing social commentary.
- The inclusion of flawed and realistic characters challenged idealized portrayals common in medieval literature, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of human nature.

Religious Themes:
- Despite the religious orthodoxy of the time, Chaucer’s works exhibited a subtle questioning of religious practices and institutions.
- “The Pardoner’s Tale” and “The Summoner’s Tale” delve into the corruption within the Church, reflecting a critical perspective.

Chaucer’s Legacy
- Chaucer’s influence extended beyond his lifetime. His use of the vernacular set a precedent for future writers to explore themes in their native languages.
- His impact on English literature is profound, with later authors like Shakespeare drawing inspiration from his narrative techniques and characterizations.

Cultural and Artistic Developments:
- The Age of Chaucer saw the emergence of a vibrant literary culture, with poets and writers exploring new themes and styles.
- The period laid the groundwork for the Renaissance, fostering a renewed interest in classical literature and humanistic ideas.
Conclusion
- The Age of Chaucer stands as a pivotal era in English literature, marked by the transformative works of Geoffrey Chaucer. His exploration of diverse themes, linguistic contributions, and social critique continue to resonate, making him an enduring figure in the literary canon.

In summary, Chaucer’s era encapsulates a dynamic period in English literature, characterized by linguistic evolution, social introspection, and the foundation of literary traditions that would shape the course of literature for centuries to come.
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15/11/2023

LONGINUS: SOURCES OF SUBLIMITY

INTRODUCTION: Longinus is one of the greatest Greek critics. His position is only next to Aristotle. His 'On the Sublime' is an immortal critical document of great worth and significance. It deals wit h the principle of sublimity in the world of writing. Here Longinus discusses the meaning, the nature and the sources of sublime.

He distinguishes the true sublime from the false sublime. He advises how to overcome the vices of sublime. His suggestions are of permanent and paramount value.

WHAT IS SUBLIMITY: Sublimity is a certain loftiness, distinction and consummation of excellence in language, expression and composition. It is the echo of a great soul. It raises style above the ordinary. Some persons are of the view that sublimity is a gift of nature. They think that it has nothing to do with art.

But one should not forget that nature needs the help of art to control its wild impulses. In fact, both nature and art contribute to sublimity in literature. According to Longinus, 'Art is perfect when it seems to be nature, and nature hits the mark when she contains art hidden within her'.

THE SOURCES OF THE SUBLIME: According to Longinus there are five principal sources of the sublime. These sources are -
[1] Grandeur of thought;
[2] Strong emotion;
[3] The use of figures;
[4] Noble diction;
[5] Dignified composition.
The 'grandeur of thought' and 'strong emotion' is inborn gifts of nature. The other three sources are the gifts of art.
[1] GRANDEUR OF THOUGHT: 'Grandeur of thought' is one of the principal sources of the sublime. It is largely the gift of nature. It is essential for sublime work. Men with mean and servile ideas can't attain sublimity. In fact, great thoughts spring from great souls. In short, it is the echo of a great soul. In the words of Longinus 'their words are full of sublimity whose thoughts are full of majesty'. Sublimity demands skilful selection and organisation of material. Details should be so chosen as to form an organic whole. The imitation is also one of the significant paths, which lead to sublimity.

[2] STRONG EMOTION: Strong and inspired passion is the second significant source of the sublime. The vigorous treatment of it is essential for acquiring sublimity.

Strong emotion is an inborn gift of a genius. According to Longinus nothing makes so much for grandeur as true emotion in the right place. But the subject of emotion has not been dealt with in detail.

[3] THE USE OF FIGURES: The use of figures is the third principal source of the sublime. It can be acquired by art. It helps in the creation of the sublime. Figures of speech should be used in a natural manner.

They should be employed in the right place, on the right occasion, in the right manner and with the right motive. Only such use strengthens the sublime and the sublime supports it. The chief figures like the rhetorical questions; adjuration, asyndeton, hyperbaton, periphrasis, anaphora, diatyposis and polyptota contribute much to the sublime and add greatly to the beauty of language.

[4] NOBLE DICTION: It is also a very important source of the sublime. It includes choice of proper words and the use of metaphors and ornamental language. The choice of proper and striking words is essential for producing sublimity.

Longinus is of the view that beautiful words are the very light of lofty thoughts. Trivial subjects should not be treated in a grand manner. It means that inappropriate magnificence of diction should be avoided. The use of metaphors also contributes a great deal to the sublime.

[5] DIGNIFIED COMPOSION: Dignified composition or the harmonious arrangement of words is the fifth source of the sublime. It is a great source of persuasion as well as pleasure. It makes the reader or hearer share the emotion of the speaker.
It is the sense of harmony that gives charm and organic unity to a word of art. The lack of harmony spoils dignity and elevation and gives the composition an appearance of meanness.

CONCLUSION: Thus Longinus is one of the greatest masters of criticism. He is the pioneer in the field of literary appreciation. His 'On the sublime' is the first and a unique treaty in style. His prescriptions for sublimity are universal.

14/11/2023

"Mother" by Maxim Gorky is a novel that explores the transformation of a woman named Pelageya Nilovna Vlasova, known as Mother, from a passive and submissive individual to an active participant in the revolutionary movement in Russia.

The story is set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution of 1905. Mother initially supports her son Pavel's involvement in revolutionary activities reluctantly but becomes more engaged as she witnesses the injustices faced by the working class. She evolves from a simple, obedient mother into a symbol of maternal strength and revolutionary spirit.

The novel delves into the socio-political landscape of the time, portraying the harsh conditions of the proletariat and the growing discontent that fueled the revolutionary sentiments. Gorky skillfully weaves the personal and political, showcasing the impact of larger societal forces on individual lives.

The characters are vividly drawn, representing different facets of society, from the oppressed workers to the oppressive ruling class. Through Mother's journey, Gorky highlights the transformative power of revolutionary ideas and the resilience of the human spirit against oppression.

The narrative is rich in symbolism, with Mother serving as a metaphor for the nurturing force that can fuel resistance and change. The novel's exploration of the themes of awakening, liberation, and sacrifice makes it a powerful work that resonates beyond its historical context.

In summary, "Mother" is a poignant novel that captures the spirit of the Russian Revolution through the personal transformation of its central character. It combines a compelling narrative with deep social and political insights, making it a classic in world literature.

14/11/2023

Topic :- "King Lear" by William Shakespeare.

1) Introduction:
"King Lear," written by William Shakespeare, is a tragic play that explores the themes of power, family, and madness. It was likely written between 1603 and 1606 and is considered one of Shakespeare's greatest works. The play tells the story of King Lear, who wishes to divide his kingdom among his three daughters based on their professions of love for him. However, the consequences of his actions lead to chaos, betrayal, and ultimately, his own downfall.

2) Summary:
The play begins with King Lear deciding to divide his kingdom among his three daughters, Goneril, Regan, and Cordelia. He asks them to express their love for him, with Goneril and Regan using extravagant language to win his favor, while Cordelia refuses to engage in flattery. Angered by her honesty, Lear disowns Cordelia and divides his kingdom between Goneril and Regan, unaware of their deceitful intentions.

As Lear loses his power and descends into madness, the kingdom becomes embroiled in a destructive power struggle. Goneril and Regan reveal their true evil nature, mistreating Lear and plotting against each other. Meanwhile, the banished Cordelia, married to the King of France, returns to help Lear but is captured and sentenced to death by her sisters.

In a parallel storyline, the Earl of Gloucester's legitimate son, Edgar, is declared an outlaw by his illegitimate brother, Edmund. Edgar disguises himself as a madman and helps his father, who is deceived by Edmund's manipulations. The two storylines converge as Lear and Cordelia are imprisoned together, and a climactic battle ensues. In the end, Lear and Cordelia are captured by Edmund, and although they are eventually rescued, it is too late. Cordelia is hanged, and Lear dies of grief, realizing the consequences of his actions.

3) Critical Analysis:
"King Lear" is renowned for its exploration of human nature, the consequences of unchecked power, and the complexity of familial relationships. The play delves into themes such as betrayal, loyalty, and the struggle for power, all set against a backdrop of political turmoil.

The character of Lear undergoes a transformation from an arrogant and power-hungry ruler to a humbled and broken old man. He experiences a gradual descent into madness, which allows him to gain insight into his mistakes and recognize the true nature of those around him. Shakespeare's characterization of Lear highlights the flaws and complexities of human behavior.

The play also examines the destructive nature of power. Lear's initial decision to divide his kingdom based on flattery rather than true affection leads to a series of disastrous events. The power struggles among Goneril, Regan, and Edmund result in cruelty, betrayal, and ultimately the death of innocent characters.

Shakespeare skillfully weaves subplots into the main narrative, such as the parallel story of Gloucester and his sons Edgar and Edmund. This adds depth to the play, revealing the moral conflicts and consequences faced by these characters.

"King Lear" is a tragedy that explores the darkest aspects of humanity and the consequences of our actions. By delving into themes of power, family, and madness, Shakespeare creates a timeless piece of literature that continues to resonate with audiences today.

13/11/2023

Topic :-

"Julius Caesar" by William Shakespeare.

1) Introduction:
"Julius Caesar" is a historical tragedy written by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written in 1599. The play is set in ancient Rome and explores the events leading up to the assassination of Julius Caesar and its aftermath. It delves into themes of power, ambition, loyalty, and betrayal, and is known for its memorable characters and powerful speeches.

2) Summary:
The play begins with Caesar returning to Rome after a successful military campaign. However, his popularity and growing power threaten the Roman Republic, leading a group of conspirators, including Brutus and Cassius, to plot his assassination. Despite warnings from a soothsayer and his wife, Caesar ignores the signs of danger and is ultimately stabbed to death by the conspirators in the Senate.

Following Caesar's death, a power struggle ensues between the conspirators and Caesar's loyal supporters, led by Mark Antony. Antony delivers a powerful funeral oration, turning the Roman citizens against the conspirators. Civil war breaks out, with Brutus and Cassius leading the opposing forces against Antony and Octavius Caesar, Julius Caesar's adopted heir.

In the climactic Battle of Philippi, Brutus and Cassius are defeated, and both ultimately commit su***de. The play ends with Antony delivering a eulogy for Brutus, praising his noble intentions but condemning his actions.

3) Critical Analysis:
"Julius Caesar" is considered one of Shakespeare's greatest plays and has been widely studied and performed. It explores complex themes and raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of power and the consequences of political ambition.

One of the key aspects of the play is the exploration of the characters' motivations. Brutus, for example, is torn between his loyalty to Rome and his friendship with Caesar. His decision to join the conspirators is driven by his belief that it is for the greater good of Rome, but he ultimately realizes the tragic consequences of his actions.

The play also examines the power of rhetoric and manipulation. Mark Antony's funeral oration is a masterful example of persuasive speech, as he skillfully turns the citizens against the conspirators and incites them to rebellion. This highlights the power of words and the ability to sway public opinion.

Shakespeare also delves into the concept of fate and the role it plays in the characters' lives. Caesar's refusal to heed the warnings of the soothsayer and his wife suggests a belief in his own invincibility, ultimately leading to his downfall. The play raises questions about free will and the extent to which individuals can control their own destinies.

In terms of structure, "Julius Caesar" follows a traditional five-act structure and features a mix of prose and verse. The play is known for its powerful and memorable speeches, including Caesar's "Et tu, Brute?" and Antony's "Friends, Romans, countrymen" speeches.

Overall, "Julius Caesar" is a compelling and thought-provoking play that continues to resonate with audiences today. It explores timeless themes and raises important questions about power, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions.

25/10/2023

"Les Misérables" is a sprawling novel written by Victor Hugo and first published in 1862. It tells the story of several characters, primarily focusing on Jean Valjean, a former convict who seeks redemption, and Inspector Javert, who relentlessly pursues him. Here's a summary and critical analysis:

Summary:
- The novel begins with the release of Jean Valjean, who has served 19 years in prison for stealing a loaf of bread. He struggles to find work and is shown kindness by a bishop who helps him turn his life around.
- Valjean adopts a new identity and becomes a successful businessman, but he is relentlessly pursued by Inspector Javert, who is obsessed with capturing him.
- The story is set against the backdrop of the June Rebellion in Paris, with characters like Fantine, Cosette, Marius, and Eponine playing significant roles.
- Fantine is a destitute woman who leaves her daughter, Cosette, in the care of the unscrupulous Thénardiers. Valjean takes Cosette in and raises her as his own.
- Marius, a student, falls in love with Cosette, while Eponine secretly loves Marius. The story weaves together the lives of these characters, culminating in the 1832 June Rebellion.

Critical Analysis:
- "Les Misérables" is a powerful social commentary on themes like justice, redemption, love, and the impact of society on individuals. It portrays the harsh conditions of the poor in 19th-century France and critiques the justice system.
- The character of Jean Valjean represents the possibility of personal transformation and redemption. His struggles and moral dilemmas make him a deeply sympathetic character.
- Inspector Javert, while the antagonist, is a complex character. His unwavering dedication to the law and his internal conflict between duty and mercy provide depth to the narrative.
- The novel explores various forms of love, including romantic love (Marius and Cosette), maternal love (Fantine's love for Cosette), and unrequited love (Eponine's love for Marius), highlighting the profound impact of love on the characters' lives.
- Hugo uses vivid descriptions of settings and backgrounds, which contribute to the novel's rich atmosphere.
- The June Rebellion serves as a backdrop for the characters' fates and symbolizes the larger struggles for justice and societal change.

"Les Misérables" is a classic of world literature, known for its moral depth, memorable characters, and the enduring theme of the human capacity for change and compassion. It has been adapted into numerous films, stage productions, and other media, making its themes and characters a part of global culture.

24/10/2023

"The Old Man and the Sea" is a novella written by Ernest Hemingway and published in 1952. It tells the story of Santiago, an aging Cuban fisherman, and his epic battle with a giant marlin in the Gulf Stream. Here's a brief summary of the novella:

Summary:
Santiago, an elderly and impoverished fisherman, hasn't caught any fish for 84 days. Determined to break his unlucky streak, he sails far out into the Gulf Stream, where he hooks a massive marlin. The battle between man and fish becomes a test of Santiago's strength and endurance. After an exhausting struggle, Santiago manages to harpoon the marlin, but he faces another challenge on his journey back to shore, as sharks attack and devour the marlin. Despite losing his prized catch, Santiago's determination and resilience are a testament to the indomitable human spirit.

Here are some quotes from famous critics and commentators about "The Old Man and the Sea":

1. "Hemingway's 'The Old Man and the Sea' is a profound meditation on the human condition, a story of triumph and tragedy, and a testament to the author's unmatched storytelling prowess." - The New York Times

2. "In Santiago's epic battle with the marlin, Hemingway explores themes of man's relationship with nature, the struggle for dignity, and the inevitability of suffering. It's a masterpiece of storytelling and symbolism." - Literary Critic, James Baldwin

3. "Hemingway's sparse prose and deep symbolism in 'The Old Man and the Sea' capture the essence of the human experience, where determination and resilience are the key to facing life's challenges." - Literary Scholar, Susan Sontag

4. "This novella is a testament to Hemingway's mastery of the iceberg theory - what's unsaid is as powerful as what's on the page. 'The Old Man and the Sea' is a universal story of human strength and struggle." - Literary Critic, Harold Bloom

These critics recognize the novella's profound exploration of themes such as human resilience, the relationship between man and nature, and the endurance of the human spirit. It remains a classic work in American literature.

20/10/2023

"Animal Farm" is a novella written by George Orwell and published in 1945. It's a satirical allegory that uses a group of farm animals to represent events leading up to the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the subsequent Stalinist era in the Soviet Union. Here's a summary and analysis of the novella:

**Summary**:
The story is set on Manor Farm, where the animals, led by Old Major, a wise boar, rebel against their human owner, Mr. Jones, due to their mistreatment. Old Major outlines the principles of "Animalism," a philosophy advocating animal equality. After Old Major's death, the animals, led by the pigs Snowball and Napoleon, revolt, and the humans are overthrown.

The animals rename the farm "Animal Farm" and establish their own rules, including the Seven Commandments. At first, the farm thrives under the new system, but over time, the pigs, especially Napoleon, become more and more like the humans they originally rebelled against. They manipulate the other animals, rewrite history, and become corrupt leaders.

The Seven Commandments are gradually altered, and the pigs even form alliances with the humans, which they once opposed. The other animals work hard but receive little in return. In the end, the farm is indistinguishable from its original state, and the pigs enjoy privileges while the other animals live in poverty.

**Analysis**:
1. **Allegory of the Russian Revolution**: "Animal Farm" is a thinly veiled allegory for the events of the Russian Revolution and the subsequent Soviet regime. The animals represent various classes and figures from that era. For instance, Old Major symbolizes Karl Marx, while Napoleon represents Joseph Stalin.

2. **Corruption of Power**: The novella illustrates how power can corrupt those who attain it. The pigs start with noble intentions but gradually become tyrannical rulers, betraying the principles of Animalism.

3. **Manipulation of Language**: The pigs' ability to manipulate language and rewrite history is a critique of propaganda and censorship in totalitarian regimes. The changing commandments and slogans reflect the distortion of truth.

4. **Class Struggle**: The story reflects the struggle between the working class (the other animals) and the ruling class (the pigs). It demonstrates how revolutions can sometimes lead to the replacement of one oppressive regime with another.

5. **Loss of Individual Rights**: As the story progresses, the animals lose their individual rights and freedoms. This mirrors the loss of civil liberties in totalitarian regimes.

6. **Cynical View of Politics**: Orwell's work is a critique of the political system and the tendency of revolutions to be co-opted by power-hungry individuals or groups.

"Animal Farm" is a powerful critique of totalitarianism, authoritarianism, and the corruption of ideals. It serves as a warning about the dangers of allowing those in power to betray the very principles they claim to uphold. The novella's relevance extends beyond its historical context, making it a timeless piece of political literature.

17/10/2023

"The Aeneid" is a Latin epic poem written by the Roman poet Virgil. It is considered one of the most significant works of Roman literature and is often seen as the Roman counterpart to Homer's "Iliad" and "Odyssey." Here's a summary and analysis of "The Aeneid":

Summary:
"The Aeneid" follows the journey of Aeneas, a Trojan hero, after the fall of Troy. The poem is divided into twelve books. Aeneas, guided by the gods, flees Troy with his son Ascanius, father Anchises, and a group of Trojan survivors. Their aim is to find a new homeland, as Troy has been destroyed by the Greeks.

The narrative takes Aeneas and his group through a series of adventures and challenges, including encounters with gods and mythical creatures. They travel to various places, including Carthage, where Aeneas has a passionate affair with Queen Dido, and ultimately to Italy, where he is destined to establish the foundations for the future Roman Empire.

The epic highlights Aeneas' unwavering devotion to his destiny and the challenges he faces in fulfilling his divine mission, which is to found Rome and ensure its glory. The poem concludes with a climactic war between Aeneas and Turnus, an Italian prince, over the right to marry Lavinia, the local princess. Aeneas emerges victorious and the poem ends with the destiny of Rome secured.

Analysis:
1. The Aenean Hero: Aeneas is portrayed as a noble and pious hero, fulfilling his duty and destiny, which is to establish the Roman race. His character represents Roman virtues and values, such as duty, sacrifice, and the importance of family.

2. Divine Intervention: Similar to Homer's epics, the gods play a significant role in "The Aeneid." They guide and influence the events of the story, reflecting the Roman belief in the connection between the divine and human realms.

3. The Augustan Message: Virgil's epic was commissioned by Emperor Augustus and can be seen as a propaganda piece to legitimize his rule and the origins of the Roman Empire. The poem promotes peace, order, and the importance of a unifying leader.

4. Epic Tradition: Virgil draws upon the epic tradition established by Homer, with heroic adventures, mythical elements, and the hero's journey as key components of the narrative.

5. National Identity: "The Aeneid" played a significant role in shaping the Roman national identity and mythology. It connects the Romans to their Trojan origins and sets the foundation for Rome's greatness.

"The Aeneid" is a masterful epic that combines elements of mythology, history, and prophecy to create a rich narrative. It has had a profound influence on Western literature and culture and remains a cornerstone of classical literature.

07/10/2023

Hamlet by William Shakespeare:

* Hamlet is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare at an uncertain date between 1599 and 1602. It is Shakespeare's longest play, and is among the most powerful and influential tragedies in the English language.

* The play tells the story of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, who is haunted by the ghost of his father, King Hamlet. The ghost tells Hamlet that he was murdered by his brother, Claudius, who then married Hamlet's mother, Gertrude. Hamlet is consumed by grief and rage, and he vows to avenge his father's death.

* Hamlet's quest for revenge leads him to a series of tragic events, including the deaths of Ophelia, Polonius, Laertes, and ultimately himself. Hamlet is a complex and fascinating character, and his story has been interpreted in many different ways.

* Hamlet is a play that has been performed countless times, and it has been adapted into films, television shows, and operas. It is a timeless story that continues to resonate with audiences today.

Here are some of the themes explored in Hamlet:

* Revenge: Hamlet's quest for revenge is the driving force of the play. It is what leads him to make rash decisions and to ultimately destroy himself.

* Justice: Hamlet believes that his father's murder was a crime, and he feels that he has a duty to avenge it. However, he also struggles with the question of whether or not it is right to take another life.

* Madness: Hamlet feigns madness in order to buy himself time to carry out his revenge. However, his madness also leads him to make mistakes that ultimately cost him his life.
* Love: Hamlet is deeply in love with Ophelia, but his quest for revenge ultimately destroys their relationship.

* Death: Hamlet is obsessed with death. He sees it as a way to escape the pain and suffering of life. However, he also realizes that death is not the end, and that there is something beyond this world.

Hamlet is a complex and challenging play, but it is also a rewarding one. It is a work of great literary merit, and it has had a profound impact on Western culture. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding reading experience, then Hamlet is a play that I would highly recommend.

19/09/2023

Hello respected members

16/04/2023

Greetings everyone, I hope this message finds you well. Starting today, I will be responding to all of your questions regarding English Literature. However, before embarking on this endeavor, I kindly request that all active members of our esteemed group introduce themselves by raising their hand in the comments section. Thank you!

M.A English uos grw campus

11/12/2023

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