Critical Perspectives in English Literature

Contents: Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. John Stuart Mill. 3. Shakespeare. 4. Daniel Debonda. 5. Taines history of English literature. 6. Shakespeare and criticism. 7. Milton and paradise lost. 8. Laurence sterne the Humourist. 9. Wordsworth and modern poetry in England. 10. Thomas Carlyle. 11. Endymion. 12. George Eliot. 13. The modern Novelists. Index.

In modern times literature has been employed for social purposes particularly for reforming the festering sores malaise and maladies of contemporary society. Modern literature is characterized by propaganda and through this medium dramatists have discussed social problems. In this connection Albert says: More than never before would be reformers pinned their faith on the printed word and on the serious theatre as media for social propaganda and the problem or discussion play and the novel of social purpose may be described as two of the typical products of the period. (jacket)