History of English Literature Volume 2 (of 3)

Key themes

The Interplay of Culture, Religion, and Literature

This is the foundational theme of Taine's work. He argues that literature is not an isolated art form but a direct product and reflection of the prevailing cultural, religious, and societal conditions of its time. The volume demonstrates how the specific religious ferment of the Reformation and the broader cultural shifts of the Renaissance directly shaped the themes, forms, and moral outlook of English literature.

Sensuality vs. Morality: Renaissance and Reformation

Taine meticulously explores the central tension between the perceived sensuality, aestheticism, and pagan influences of the Italian Renaissance and the rigorous moral awakening, introspection, and spiritual discipline of the Northern Reformation. This juxtaposition is presented as a driving force behind the unique character of English literature, which often sought to reconcile or navigate these opposing forces.

Determinism in Literary History

Although not explicitly stated in the summary, Taine's overarching philosophical framework is a form of cultural determinism. He posits that literature (and human behavior) is largely determined by three factors: 'race' (inherited psychological dispositions), 'milieu' (the social, political, and intellectual environment), and 'moment' (the specific historical period). This volume applies this lens to explain why English literature developed as it did during the specified periods.

Worth discussing

How effectively does Taine's deterministic theory of 'race, milieu, and moment' explain the development of English literature during the Renaissance and Reformation?