Paper no 105A: History of English Literature - from 1350 to 1900

 General characteristics of the Elizabethan Age

Hello everyone this blog is a part of an assignment of paper no 105A: History of English Literature – From 1350 to 1900

#Table of Content  

• Personal Information

• Assignment Details 

• Abstract

• Key Words 

• Introduction

•  Political Stability and National Identity

•  Religious Toleration

• Social Contentment and Economic Growth

• Cultural Enthusiasm and Exploration

• Conclusion

• References

Personal Information:

Name:- Khushi Goswami

Batch:- M.A.Sem 1 (2024-2026)

Enrollment no:- 5108240001

E-mail Address:- khushigoswami05317@gmail.com 

Roll no:- 9

Assignment Details:

Topic:-  General characteristics of the Elizabethan Age

Paper & Subject Code: 105 105A: History of English Literature – From 1350 to 1900

Submitted To:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU, Bhavnagar

Date of Submission:- 20 November, 2024

Abstract:

The Elizabethan Age (1558–1603), named after Queen Elizabeth I, is a very specific period in English history and witnessed cultural, artistic, and intellectual fattery. It stands as the pinnacle of Golden Age literature and drama, often referring to the confluence of the contributions of William Shakespeare, Christopher Marlowe, and Ben Jonson. It was a marriage of Renaissance humanism and mystical medieval elements that resulted in rich literary and artistic expressions.

Politically, these have been relatively stable years with the pragmatic leadership of Elizabeth I, which strengthens national unity and now solidifies England's international power position. The defeat in 1588 of the Spanish Armada established England's supremacy at sea.

Economically, it was the advancements in trade and exploration through the likes of Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh who helped create a foundation for England's colonial expansion. Socially, the era also saw a rise in education as well as the spread of printing technology, which democratized knowledge.

The Elizabethan worldview embraced a hierarchical “Great Chain of Being” emphasizing order and divine right, but also witnessed challenges from scientific inquiry and emerging secular ideas. It remains famous for its rich drama, poetry, architecture, and music that still shape global culture.

Keywords: General Characteristics of the Elizabethan Age 

Introduction:

The Elizabethan Age, named after Queen Elizabeth I, was a period of significant political, social, and cultural transformation in England. It marked the emergence of England as a powerful and unified nation, particularly in literature. This essay explores the defining characteristics of the era that laid the groundwork for a flourishing national identity and unmatched literary creativity.

Political Stability and National Identity:

The political landscape of the Elizabethan Age was characterized by relative stability, following the turbulent reigns of Edward VI and Mary I. Queen Elizabeth's accession was a breath of fresh air for the country, uniting the people under a common nationalistic fervor. Her rule fostered patriotism, exemplified in works like The Faerie Queene by Edmund Spenser and the timeless plays of William Shakespeare. England's victory over the Spanish Armada in 1588 solidified its status as a formidable nation, further instilling pride and a sense of unity among its citizens.

Religious Toleration:

One of the most notable features of the age was religious toleration. Unlike the religious conflicts that plagued much of Europe, Elizabeth maintained a relatively tolerant stance toward both Catholics and Protestants. This spirit of coexistence was instrumental in steering the country away from internal conflict, allowing the people to focus on intellectual and creative pursuits. The freedom from religious persecution gave writers the mental and emotional space to explore new ideas and themes. 

The Elizabethan Religious Settlement was enacted in 1559 this recognized the Church of England as Protestant but retained elements of Catholic tradition to placate both sides. The Act of Supremacy declared that Elizabeth was the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, and the Act of Uniformity required the use of the Protestant Book of Common Prayer. Such provisions offered some latitude in worship; it was hoped that a divided nation could thereby come together.

Elizabeth's policy was pragmatic-towards those people who outwardly conformed to the state religion, harsh persecution was avoided. Her government did not go looking for dissenters unless they were politically incendiary. But it was a strictly limited policy of toleration. Catholics, in particular, after being excommunicated by Pope Pius V in 1570, were suspected in their loyalty. Laws against recusancy-attendance at Anglican services-were passed, and, of course, Catholic priests were sought out.

Similarly, radical Protestant groups, such as the Puritans, faced suppression when their demands for further reforms threatened the unity of the Elizabethan Church.

Social Contentment and Economic Growth:

The Elizabethan period was also marked by a degree of social contentment. England experienced economic prosperity due to expanding trade and the growth of manufacturing towns, which provided employment and improved living conditions. This newfound wealth contributed to a flourishing middle class, which in turn fostered an audience eager for literature and theatre, leading to the rise of the English stage.

Cultural Enthusiasm and Exploration:

The Elizabethan era was an age of exploration and cultural enthusiasm. Inspired by the exploits of explorers such as Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh, Elizabethans embraced a spirit of adventure and discovery. This enthusiasm extended into literature, where writers created worlds that reflected the boundless possibilities of the newly discovered lands. The age produced literary masterpieces that continue to captivate readers and audiences alike.

The Renaissance belief in humanism and the pursuit of knowing led to a phenomenal creative explosion in the Elizabethan period. Theater flourished through the imaginative works of playwrights such as William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe, covering themes such as love and power and the human dilemma. Poetry reached great heights with the work of Edmund Spenser and Sir Philip Sidney exemplifying a purist poetic practice. Elizabethan music ranged from madrigals to courtly compositions that was part of a vibrant cultural scene, and architectural advancements, inspired by classical styles, introduced innovations in design.

The era was also defined by a spirit of geographic discovery and naval exploration. With the support of Queen Elizabeth I, explorers such as Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh engaged in bold voyages: circumnavigating the earth and laying the foundations for early trade routes. England's interest in the Age of Exploration is characterized by economic ambitions, competition with Spain, and a thirst for new knowledge. Such ventures did not only increase the influence of England but also helped build the country's future colonial empire.

Conclusion:

The Elizabethan Age was a period of national pride, political stability, religious tolerance, and cultural flourishing. These factors combined to create an environment where literature, particularly drama, could thrive. Writers like Shakespeare, Marlowe, and Jonson reached new heights, making the Elizabethan era one of the most celebrated periods in English literary history.

References : 

Long, William J. English Literature. Repro India Limited, 2012.