Examining the Ages: A Look at Literary Periods
Expectations:
In order to understand major themes, genres and theories in literature, and understanding of
the development of society is essential. Every period in history added to the expansion and
development in every aspect of life. The purpose of this activity is to take an in-depth look at
the social, religious, artistic, political and economic issues of the day and how it shaped each
specific time, and subsequently, our art and literature.
Literary Time Periods: (dates are approximate)
Ancient Greece 2900BC – 641AD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-mkVSasZIM
Roman Age – 753BC – 1461AD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPf27gAup9U
Middle Ages (also called the Dark Ages) – 1066-1485
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QV7CanyzhZg
Renaissance – 1330 - 1618
Age of Reason (also called the Age of Enlightenment) – 1660 – 1800
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J0B28_gwj0M
Romantic Age – 1770 - 1850 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAw0M0x3lyA
Victorian Age – 1837 – 1901 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtXLi5c7sP4
Modern Age – 1900 – Present http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAcEnicVYq0
As you can see, dates overlap, and some years are even missing. Depending on what part of
the world or part of history you consider, these eras and their significance play roles of varying
importance.
Task – Part One:
Due Friday, September 12
Study the suggested links for each Literary Era (except the Renaissance), or do some of your
own research, and give brief notes on the following:
-
A definition of the major time period
list 3-5 major historical events in chronological order
list 3 major contributors to the arts or literature of that era, and what they
contributed (they do not have to be writers or composers, consider
philosophers, political figures, as well)
Task- Part Two:
The Renaissance
Due: Friday, September 19
A. You will conduct and create a Power Point presentation of the Renaissance.
1. Discuss how the basic social, economic, religious and political climate influenced
literature, architecture and theater of this time.
2. Include a detailed timeline of this period of history.
3. Research one significant writer or playwright (not Shakespeare) during this time and
share a piece of their literature.
4. Include a work cited list with your project. (keep track of your websites and research
articles as you go )
Feel free to use the following in your Power Point:
~lecture, skit, role-playing, smart board, power point, graphics, charts, media
clips,
Mark Breakdown
SEMINAR:
Power Point
Work Cited (MLA)
Total:
/60
/10
/70