In order to do justice to the variety of thought and texts, we will cover quite a lot of material. Your active preparation and participation is an absolute must. This course will examine the literature, history, and culture of Restoration England. The seventeenth century was a period of extreme social and political turbulence in England. This course will examine the historical vents leading up to the Restoration of Charles II, and consider what bearing the English Revolution had upon the literature and culture of the age.
Attendance is mandatory.
A study of works by eighteenth-century British writers, including Jonathan Swift, Alexander Pope, Laurence Sterne, and Samuel Johnson. Writing requirements include two essays, frequent quizzes, and a final examination. The emphasis will be on Milton as a radical Christian, half street fighter, half cultural elitist. Brief oral reports, term paper, final. Heavy emphasis on discussion.