Introduction to the Classics

This course is designed to introduce the student to Western Classic literature in a very clear and understandable way. To provide just the essential knowledge and background of Western literature; an understanding of the development and evolution of western thought through exploring the great works of literature. We will examine the significance of literature from the following eras –

1. Two origins - Ancient

2. Greek period

3. Roman Period

4. Medieval Period

5. Renaissance Period

6. Neo-Classical Period

7. Romantic Period

8. Realism or Naturalism

9. Modernism

10. Post modernism

That makes the book only an “outline introduction.” course designed to give Western literature a general introduction. T for an introductory course to Western literature has to make students familiar with the background of the historical development from period to period.

Furthermore, it needs to make students familiar with the important features of each period in the light of the literary genres and movements or schools, as well as with the major authors and works, involved in its historical development. Accordingly, this book is so arranged that each chapter contains three

chief integral parts—“Historical Background,” “Literary Features,” and “Major Authors and Works,” plus one additional part—“Further Remarks.” This book can also be used as a reference book for any course designed to teach the history of Western literature or the appreciation of Western literature. In this

book Chinese translations are provided for those names of authors or titles of works which are already known to have their popular Chinese translations or which the author thinks important and therefore had better have Chinese translations. In some cases when the already-existing popular Chinese translations are not good enough, they are replaced with new translations by the author. A Pronunciation Guide to Proper Names is attached to this book for those who may want to know how some proper names are pronounced. For the accomplishment of writing this book, I wish to thank my friend and former colleague, Professor Robert Glen of Chung Shan Medical University, who encouraged me to write this book, read its first draft, and gave me many valuable comments and suggestions for revising it.