This book, which presents the whole splendid history of English literature from Anglo-Saxon times to the close of the Victorian Era, has three specific aims. The first is to create or to encourage in every student the desire to read the best books, and to know literature itself rather than what has been written about literature. The second is to interpret literature both personally and historically, that is, to show how a great book generally reflects not only the author's life and thought but also the spirit of the age and the ideals of the nation's history. The third aim is to show, by a study of each successive period, how our literature has steadily developed from its first simple songs and stories to its present complexity in prose and poetry. To carry out these aims we have introduced the following features: (1) A brief, accurate summary of historical events and social conditions in each period, and a consideration of the ideals which stirred the whole nation, as in the days of Elizabeth, before they found expression in literature. (2) A study of the various literary epochs in turn, showing what each gained from the epoch preceding, and how each aided in the development of a national literature. (3) A readable biography of every important writer, showing how he lived and worked, how he met success or failure, how he influenced his age, and how his age influenced him. (4) A study and analysis of every author's best works, and of many of the books required for college-entrance examinations. (5) Selections enough--especially from earlier writers, and from writers not likely to be found in the home or school library--to indicate the spirit of each author's work; and directions as to the best works to read, and where such works may be found in inexpensive editions. (6) A frank, untechnical discussion of each great writer's work as a whole, and a critical estimate of his relative place and influence in our literature.

Reproduction of the original. The publishing house Megali specialises in reproducing historical works in large print to make reading easier for people with impaired vision.

American author, minister & naturalist William Joseph Long is the author of this timeless work of English literature. William J. Long is best known for his collection of English literature. Its History and Its Significance for the Life of the English-Speaking World is a comprehensive book that explores the development of English literature historically from the Anglo-Saxon era to the Victorian era. Providing a thorough examination of authors and their works in addition to quoting passages from significant treatises written over a period of over eight decades, this book is an unrivaled reference for students and researchers in the field of literature. This book is an unrivaled point of reference for students and researchers in the field of literature because the author puts tremendous effort into presenting details about authors and their works in addition to quoting passages from important treatises written over a period of over eight centuries