ĐỀ CƯƠNG THI HẾT MÔN - MÔN VĂN HỌC ANH MỸ (TỰ LUẬN) - EN16

Bài này được soạn dựa trên câu hỏi trong bài học của giáo viên ehou. Bám sát chương trình giảng dạy.1. Why is it said that Humanism was the progressive ideology of the Renaissance intheEnglish Literature? Who was the most outstanding author of this period?2. Why is it said that Humanism was the progressive ideology of the Renaissance intheEnglish Literature? Who was the most outstanding author of this period?

A Questions

1 Why is it said that Humanism was the progressive ideology of the Renaissance in the English Literature? Who was the most outstanding author of this period?

Humanism is considered the progressive ideology of the Renaissance in English Literature because it marked a significant shift from medieval scholasticism to a focus on human potential and achievements It

emphasized the value of human experience, reason, and individualism, and it encouraged the study of classical texts and the liberal arts to understand and improve the human condition.

Humanists believed that education could transform individuals and society, leading to a more enlightened and virtuous populace.

The most outstanding author of this period is often considered to be William Shakespeare, whose works epitomize the Renaissance's humanistic values Shakespeare's plays and poems explore the complexity of human experience, the beauty of language, and the capacity for both great virtue and great vice His profound influence on English literature and language is still felt today.

Other notable authors from this period include Sir Thomas More, who wrote "Utopia," a work that reflects humanist ideals of societal

organization based on reason and nature, and Christopher Marlowe, known for his plays and poetry that pushed the boundaries of

Elizabethan drama and poetics.

These authors, among others, contributed to the flourishing of English literature during the Renaissance, making it one of the most vibrant periods in literary history.

2 What are Shakespeare’s great comedies? What are their main features?

Shakespeare's great comedies are renowned for their wit, complex plots, and exploration of love and identity Some of the most celebrated

comedies include:

• A Midsummer Night's Dream: Known for its magical setting and

interwoven plots involving fairies, lovers, and a group of amateur actors • Much Ado About Nothing: Features the sharp-tongued courtship of Beatrice and Benedick and explores themes of honor, shame, and politics.

• Twelfth Night: A tale of mistaken identity and unrequited love, showcasing the fluidity of gender roles and the folly of ambition.

• The Taming of the Shrew: Centers on the battle of wills between the feisty Katherina and the cunning Petruchio.

• The Tempest: Combines elements of magic, betrayal, and forgiveness, set on a remote island

The main features of Shakespeare's comedies typically include:

1 Love and Marriage: Central themes often revolve around romantic entanglements, with marriage as a common resolution.

2 Mistaken Identity: Characters frequently disguise themselves, leading to a series of misunderstandings and comedic situations.

3 Wit and Wordplay: Clever dialogue, puns, and innuendos are used to entertain and convey deeper meanings.

4 Complex Plots: Multiple subplots are intricately woven together, often culminating in a harmonious resolution.5 Social Commentary: While humorous, these plays also critique societal norms and human behavior.

These comedies not only provide entertainment but also offer insight into the human condition, making them timeless pieces of literature.

3 What are Shakespeare’s great tragedies and what do they

reflect? In what way does the tragedy of Hamlet differ from other tragedies of that time?

Shakespeare's great tragedies are known for their exploration of complex themes such as the nature of evil, the consequences of ambition, and the struggles of the human condition Some of his most renowned tragedies include:

• Hamlet: Reflects on themes of revenge, madness, and the complexity of action.

• Macbeth: Deals with ambition, power, and the supernatural • Othello: Explores jealousy, trust, and betrayal.

• King Lear: Focuses on authority, family, and madness.

• Romeo and Juliet: Centers on love, fate, and the conflict between generations

These tragedies often feature a noble protagonist with a tragic flaw that leads to their downfall, the presence of supernatural elements, and a high body count by the end of the play.

The tragedy of Hamlet differs from other tragedies of the time in several ways:

1 Protagonist's Conscience: While most revenge tragedies focus on the material obstacles that the revenger must overcome, in Hamlet, it is the revenger’s conscience that is the main impediment Hamlet’s hesitation and philosophical introspection delay action and contribute to his

downfall.

2 Depth of Characterization: Hamlet's characters are generally more complex and sympathetic compared to those in other revenge tragedies of the era.

3 Play within a Play: Hamlet includes a meta-theatrical element, a play within the play, which is used to reflect on the nature of performance and truth.

4 Philosophical Depth: Hamlet is noted for its deep philosophical

questions about life, death, and the human condition, which go beyond the typical revenge plot structure.

5 Moral Ambiguity: The play presents a more nuanced view of morality and justice, avoiding clear-cut answers and allowing for multiple

These distinctive features have contributed to Hamlet's enduring popularity and its reputation as one of Shakespeare's most profound works.

4 What makes “Hamlet” one of Shakespeare’s great masterpieces? "Hamlet" is considered one of Shakespeare's great masterpieces for several reasons:

1 Psychological Complexity: The character of Hamlet is deeply complex, embodying the existential struggles and introspection that define the human experience His soliloquies reveal the inner workings of his mind, showcasing Shakespeare's ability to capture the variety of the human psyche.

2 Philosophical Depth: The play is Shakespeare's most philosophical work, posing profound questions about life, death, morality, and the

nature of reality It refuses to provide easy answers, instead inviting audiences to ponder alongside its characters.

3 Dramatic Structure: "Hamlet" features a compelling revenge plot filled with intrigue and suspense, yet it transcends the typical revenge tragedy formula by focusing on the protagonist's moral and ethical dilemmas 4 Language and Expression: Shakespeare's use of language in "Hamlet" is unparalleled, with rich imagery, eloquent dialogue, and memorable lines that have become part of the cultural lexicon

1 Universal Themes: The themes of betrayal, revenge, madness, and mortality are universal and continue to resonate with audiences across different cultures and time periods The play's exploration of these themes makes it timeless and relatable.

2 Influence on Literature: "Hamlet" has inspired countless adaptations and works of art, influencing writers and creators for over four centuries Its impact on literature and culture is immeasurable.

These elements combine to make "Hamlet" a work of enduring significance, captivating audiences with its intricate storytelling, profound themes, and the timeless quality of its characters and language.

5 What were the three periods of English Enlightenment in literature? Who were representatives of each period?

The English Enlightenment, often referred to as the Age of Reason, was a period that spanned the 18th century and is characterized by three significant phases:

1 Early Enlightenment: This phase saw the beginnings of the

movement, with a focus on scientific rationalism and the questioning of traditional authority Representatives of this period include John

Locke, who advocated for the social contract and natural rights, and Isaac Newton, whose scientific discoveries laid the groundwork for the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason.

2 High Enlightenment: This period was marked by the height of

Enlightenment thinking, where ideas about democracy, freedom, and individual rights were widely discussed and promoted Key figures include Voltaire, known for his advocacy of civil liberties and criticism of the Church, and David Hume, who contributed significantly to philosophy and empiricism.

3 Late Enlightenment: The final phase of the Enlightenment saw the maturation of its ideas and their application to political and social reforms Immanuel Kant, with his works on ethics and epistemology, and Adam Smith, with his economic theories in "The Wealth of

Nations," were prominent representatives of this period These periods reflect the evolution of thought from the early

challenges to traditional authority, through the development of ideas about human rights and rationality, to the application of these ideas to society and governance The Enlightenment had a profound impact on literature, philosophy, science, and the cultural life of the time, setting the stage for the modern world.

6 What is the meaning of the word Enlightenment? What were the two trends among the English Enlighteners?

The word "Enlightenment" refers to both the action of enlightening or the state of being enlightened, and a significant historical period known as the Age of Enlightenment or the Age of Reason During this period, which spanned the 17th and 18th centuries, there was a profound emphasis on reason, individualism, and scientific inquiry over tradition It was

characterized by a shift towards secularism, the questioning of authority, and the pursuit of knowledge through empirical evidence and rational thought.

Among the English Enlighteners, there were two main trends:

1 Moderate Enlightenment: This trend followed the philosophical paths laid by thinkers like Descartes, Locke, and Christian Wolff It sought to find a balance between reform and the traditional systems of power and faith, advocating for gradual change and improvement within the existing structures of society.

2 Radical Enlightenment: Inspired by the philosophy of Spinoza, the Radical Enlightenment pushed for more profound changes It advocated for democracy, individual liberty, freedom of expression, and the

eradication of religious authority This trend was more revolutionary, aiming to fundamentally transform society and its institutions.

These two trends reflect the diversity of thought among English

Enlighteners, with some seeking to reform and improve the existing order and others striving for more radical changes to establish new societal norms based on reason and individual rights.

7 Briefly state Defoe’s writing career What was Defoe’s contribution to English literature?

Daniel Defoe's writing career was both varied and prolific He began as a merchant and was involved in several trades, but he faced

financial difficulties and bankruptcy Turning to writing, Defoe became a prominent journalist, pamphleteer, and novelist His early writing career included producing essays and political pamphlets, and he worked for partisan newspapers He was also known for his travel books, poetry, and biographies.

Defoe's most significant contribution to English literature is his

development of the novel as a literary form He is often regarded as one of the first English novelists His novel "Robinson Crusoe" (1719) is considered a classic and has been widely translated, second only to the Bible in its number of translations Defoe's realistic depiction of life, his detailed narratives, and his exploration of characters in novels like "Moll Flanders" and "Roxana" have earned him the reputation of a pioneer of the English novel His works are characterized by their narrative style, which has been termed

"circumstantial realism," and they often explore the conflict between spiritual and earthly values.

Defoe's novels were not just entertaining stories; they also offered commentary on the social, economic, and moral issues of his time His ability to create compelling and believable characters and situations made his works resonate with readers, influencing the direction of English literature and setting a precedent for future novelists.

8 What is the difference between Swift’s realism and the realism of Defoe? (t57-58)

The difference between Swift's realism and Defoe's realism lies in their approach and the themes they explore in their works.

Defoe's Realism: Daniel Defoe is known for his detailed and factual style of writing, which aims to present life as it is His realism is characterized by precise descriptions of bourgeois life, focusing on the experiences of ordinary people and the practical details of daily living Defoe's works, such as "Robinson Crusoe" and "Moll Flanders," often read like true accounts, filled with realistic details that make the fictional seem believable.

Swift's Realism: Jonathan Swift, on the other hand, employs a satirical form of realism He uses irony and exaggeration to critique and mock societal norms and human follies Swift's realism is less about depicting life accurately and more about using allegory and hyperbole to reveal the absurdities and vices of society His most famous work, "Gulliver's

Travels," uses fantastical elements and sharp wit to satirize human nature and the political landscape of his time.

In essence, while Defoe's realism is grounded in the depiction of the real world with an emphasis on detail, Swift's realism is a vehicle for satire, using humor and irony to comment on the human condition and society.

9 What are the characteristic features of the Romanticism in the English Literature?

Romanticism in English Literature, which flourished during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, is characterized by several key features:

1 Glorification of Nature: Romantic literature often features nature in its most wild and untamed forms, serving as a symbol of the emotional and spiritual states of the characters

2 Emphasis on Emotion and Individual Experience: Romantic writers valued emotion over reason and celebrated the individual's experience and intuition

3 Celebration of the Individual: The movement focused on the individual, particularly the artist or poet, as a supremely important being and

celebrated the creative spirit

4 Interest in the Common Man and Childhood: Romanticism idealized the common man and childhood, which were seen as more pure and noble states of being

5 Importance of Imagination: Imagination was considered a pathway to transcendence and truth, more so than logical reasoning

6 Focus on the Sublime: Many Romantic works explore the concept of the sublime, an aesthetic quality that inspires a sense of awe or terror, often through depictions of vast landscapes or powerful emotions

7 Fascination with the Past: There was a strong interest in the past, especially the medieval era and ancient Greek and Roman culture, as a source of inspiration

8 Idealization of Women: Women were often idealized in Romantic literature as embodiments of innocence and moral purity

9 Innovative Literary Forms: Romantic writers experimented with new literary forms and styles, breaking away from classical conventions 10 Political and Social Criticism: The literature of this period often contained elements of critique against the political and social norms of the time

These features reflect the Romantic movement's commitment to

exploring the depths of human emotion, the beauty of the natural world, and the power of the individual's imagination and creativity.

10 Comment on the main themes in Burn’s poems.

Robert Burns, often regarded as Scotland's national poet, explored a variety of themes in his poems that reflect his personal life, Scottish culture, and the human condition Here are some of the main themes found in Burns' poetry:

1 Life's Unpredictability: Burns often wrote about the unforeseen twists and turns of life, as exemplified in his famous line from "To a Mouse": "The best laid schemes o' Mice an' Men / Gang aft agley"

2 Empathy for All Creatures: His poems show a deep sense of empathy for both humans and animals, recognizing the shared experiences and struggles across all forms of life

3 The Plight of the Poor: Burns' own experiences as a farmer influenced his portrayal of the hardships faced by the poor and the working class 4 Celebration of Scottish Culture: Many of his works document and celebrate traditional Scottish culture, including expressions of farm life, class distinctions, and religious commentary

1 Love and Romance: Burns wrote numerous poems and songs about love, often with a mix of tenderness and humor.

2 The Power of Nature: Nature is a recurring theme in Burns' work, where it often stands as a metaphor for human emotions and social situations.

7 National Identity and Independence: Burns' poetry also touches on themes of resilience and defiant courage, particularly in relation to Scottish identity and the struggle for independence

These themes showcase Burns' ability to capture the essence of human experience, making his work resonate with readers across generations and geographies His use of the Scots language and his innovative poetic forms have also contributed to his lasting legacy in literature.

11 In about 150 words write what you know about Jane Austen and her novel Pride and Prejudice.

Jane Austen (1775-1817) was an English novelist known for her keen observations of British society and insightful portrayal of the lives of women in the early 19th century Her novels often explore themes of love, marriage, class, and social expectations.

"Pride and Prejudice," published in 1813, is one of Austen's most famous works Set in rural England, it follows the story of Elizabeth Bennet, the second of five daughters of a country gentleman, as she navigates the complexities of love and marriage The novel explores the challenges faced by women in a society where marriage was often seen as the

primary goal and means of social advancement Through Elizabeth's wit, intelligence, and independence, Austen challenges societal norms and expectations, particularly regarding the role of women in marriage.

The novel also delves into themes of pride and prejudice, as reflected in the attitudes and interactions of its characters, notably Elizabeth and Mr Darcy Their initial misunderstandings and prejudices towards each other give way to a deeper understanding and appreciation, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and personal growth.

"Pride and Prejudice" is celebrated for its sharp wit, memorable

characters, and timeless exploration of human relationships, making it a beloved classic of English literature that continues to resonate with

readers worldwide.

12.What are the characteristic features of the Critical Realism in the English Literature?

Critical realism in English literature refers to a literary movement that emerged in the mid-20th century as a response to the prevailing literary trends Some characteristic features of critical realism include:

Social and Political Commentary: Critical realist literature often explores social issues, such as class conflict, poverty, and injustice Authors use their works to critique societal norms and structures, offering

commentary on contemporary political and social issues.

Detailed Description: Critical realist writers pay close attention to detail and provide vivid descriptions of characters, settings, and events This attention to detail helps to create a rich and immersive reading

experience for the audience.

Psychological Depth: Characters in critical realist literature are often complex and multifaceted, with inner lives and motivations that are explored in depth Authors delve into the psychology of their characters, exploring their thoughts, feelings, and motivations.

Realistic Dialogue: Dialogue in critical realist literature is often

naturalistic and reflects the way people speak in real life Authors use dialogue to reveal character traits, convey information, and advance the plot in a subtle and realistic manner.

Emphasis on the Ordinary: Critical realist literature often focuses on the lives of ordinary people and the everyday experiences of the working class Authors seek to capture the reality of everyday life, offering a nuanced portrayal of the human condition.

Critique of Idealism: Critical realist literature rejects idealized or

romanticized portrayals of the world and instead seeks to depict reality as it is, warts and all Authors challenge idealistic notions of love,

success, and happiness, presenting a more nuanced and realistic view of the world.

Overall, critical realism in English literature seeks to provide a truthful and insightful portrayal of the human experience, drawing attention to social injustices and offering a critique of the status quo.

13.Explain the meaning of the subtitle of Vanity Fair Why is it said that Vanity Fair is a novel without a hero?

The subtitle of "Vanity Fair" by William Makepeace Thackeray is "A Novel without a Hero," which carries significant meaning The subtitle suggests that the novel does not follow the traditional narrative structure of

having a central heroic character who embodies ideal traits and undergoes a journey of growth or triumph.

Instead, "Vanity Fair" presents a panorama of society with characters that are flawed and often morally ambiguous The characters in the novel, including the ambitious Becky Sharp, are driven by self-interest and the pursuit of social status, rather than heroic qualities.

The phrase "without a hero" indicates that Thackeray's work deviates from the conventional expectations of a novel at the time, which typically featured a protagonist with noble qualities who overcomes challenges "Vanity Fair" instead offers a satirical and realistic portrayal of human nature and society, where characters are not simply good or evil, but complex individuals shaped by their social environment This approach allows Thackeray to critique the vanity and superficiality of the society he depicts, making the novel a critical examination of human frailties rather than a celebration of heroic virtues.

14 What is Dickens’s contribution to world literature? (t107)

Charles Dickens made significant contributions to world literature

through his prolific writing and influential storytelling Some key aspects of his contribution include:

Social Commentary: Dickens's novels are known for their vivid portrayal of social issues and injustices prevalent in Victorian England He shed light on the harsh realities of poverty, child labor, class inequality, and the plight of the marginalized in society Through his characters and narratives, Dickens advocated for social reform and raised awareness about the hardships faced by the poor and disadvantaged.

Memorable Characters: Dickens created a multitude of memorable and iconic characters that have become ingrained in popular culture From the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge in "A Christmas Carol" to the orphaned Oliver Twist and the eccentric Miss Havisham in "Great Expectations," Dickens's characters are richly drawn and multifaceted, reflecting a wide range of human experiences and emotions.

Serialized Fiction: Dickens popularized the serialized novel format, in which his works were published in installments in newspapers and magazines This format allowed Dickens to engage with a broad

readership and build suspense through cliffhangers, keeping audiences eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Linguistic Innovation: Dickens's writing style is characterized by its vivid imagery, colorful language, and distinctive use of dialogue He

masterfully captured the rhythms and dialects of everyday speech, infusing his narratives with authenticity and vitality Dickens's inventive use of language has had a lasting impact on English literature and

contributed to the evolution of the novel as an art form.

Universal Themes: Despite being rooted in the Victorian era, Dickens's themes of love, redemption, forgiveness, and the pursuit of justice resonate with readers across time and cultures His stories explore

fundamental aspects of the human condition, making them relevant and enduring works of literature that continue to captivate audiences

Overall, Charles Dickens's contribution to world literature lies in his ability to blend compelling storytelling with social critique, creating timeless works that entertain, educate, and inspire generations of readers.

15.In what ways Thackeray’s writing style differ from that of Dicken? (91) Thackeray's writing style differs from that of Dickens in several ways: 1 Narrative Voice: Thackeray often used a more detached and analytical narrative voice, providing commentary on the characters and events he described He was known for addressing the reader directly with a sense of irony and moral scrutiny conversely, is celebrated for his emotional depth and social commentary, using a more involved narrative voice that expresses sympathy for his characters.