Describe the main features of growth of literature in the Seventeenth and Eighteenth Centuries in Europe with examples.

Development of European Literature (17th and 18th Centuries)

The seventeenth and eighteenth centuries witnessed a rich and diverse evolution in European literature, marked by various cultural movements and literary styles. Examining key aspects of this development helps us understand the dynamic literary landscape during this period.

1. Baroque Literature:
Example – John Milton's "Paradise Lost" (1667)
The Baroque period in literature is characterized by elaborate, ornate language and intricate stylistic elements. John Milton's "Paradise Lost" exemplifies Baroque literature through its grandiloquent language, complex narrative structure, and exploration of profound theological and philosophical themes.

2. Enlightenment Literature:
Example – Voltaire's "Candide" (1759)
The Enlightenment brought a shift towards reason, science, and skepticism of traditional authority. Voltaire's "Candide" is a satirical novella that critiques societal norms, religious dogma, and the optimism of the time. Through humor and wit, Voltaire addresses Enlightenment ideas, promoting reason and challenging the prevailing social and political structures.

3. Neoclassical Literature:
Example – Molière's "Tartuffe" (1664)
Neoclassicism emphasized clarity, order, and adherence to classical models from ancient Greece and Rome. Molière's "Tartuffe" reflects Neoclassical principles through its well-structured plot, use of verse, and satirical exploration of hypocrisy within society. Neoclassical literature often aimed to instruct and uphold moral values.

4. Restoration Drama:
Example – Aphra Behn's "The Rover" (1677)
The Restoration period saw the reopening of theaters after the English Civil War, leading to a surge in dramatic productions. Aphra Behn's "The Rover" is a witty and libertine comedy that reflects the libertine culture of the time. It explores themes of love, gender roles, and societal norms characteristic of the Restoration era.

5. Romantic Literature:
Example – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's "The Sorrows of Young Werther" (1774)
The late eighteenth century marked the emergence of Romanticism, which celebrated emotion, individualism, and a connection with nature. Goethe's "The Sorrows of Young Werther" is a seminal work of Romantic literature, portraying the protagonist's intense emotions and the influence of nature on human experience.

6. Satirical Fiction:
Example – Jonathan Swift's "Gulliver's Travels" (1726)
Satirical fiction flourished in the eighteenth century as writers critiqued politics, society, and human nature. Jonathan Swift's "Gulliver's Travels" satirizes various aspects of European society through the fantastical voyages of Lemuel Gulliver. The work serves as a social commentary on the vices and follies of humanity.

In summary, the development of European literature in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries reflects a diverse range of styles and movements, including Baroque, Enlightenment, Neoclassical, Restoration, and Romantic literature. These examples illustrate the richness and complexity of literary expression during this transformative period in European cultural history.