This book is a comprehensive survey of English literature from the medieval period to the Victorian era. The authors, both scholars and educators, provide detailed analyses of the major genres, movements, and authors of English literature, as well as their cultural and historical contexts. The book features numerous examples of literary works and critical interpretations, as well as discussion questions and exercises. This book is an essential guide for students, teachers, and anyone who loves literature and wants to deepen their appreciation and knowledge. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.