Question

In this unit activity, you will analyze aspects of the medieval English stories The Canterbury Tales and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. You will also read George Orwell's essay "Politics and the English Language," analyze it, and express your own views on how language usage changes over time.

Answer 1

The unit activity involves analyzing medieval English literature and Orwell's essay on language use, focusing on literary features, historical context, and the interplay with the socio-political climate of the era.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student's unit activity involves analyzing medieval English stories such as The Canterbury Tales and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, as well as understanding language use over time by examining George Orwell's essay Politics and the English Language. When engaging with these texts, a student might explore various literary features of the text such as setting, plot, character development, and the use of figurative language. Additionally, considering aspects like genre conventions, critical language awareness, and rhetorical choices are part of evaluating a written work. Exploring these elements can reveal insights into the historical and cultural context of the time, such as the development of chivalry and ethos of courtly love, which were prevalent themes during the medieval period and are expressed in these literary works.

For instance, examining the use of pronouns, active vs. passive voice, verbs, nouns, and syntax can reveal how each impacts the reader's understanding of the text. The application of New Historicism can also elucidate the interplay between literature and the socio-political climate of the era. Therefore, this activity is not just about reading the texts but interpreting them in a way that connects their historical significance to their literary artistry.

Answer 2

Literary analysis in English requires careful examination of texts, considering elements like historical context, language evolution, and literary features such as tone and syntax. The essay by George Orwell complements the study of medieval texts by providing insights into language use and its influences on culture through New Historicism.

Step-by-step explanation:

Analyzing literature is a core component of English studies and can significantly deepen one's understanding of both the text itself and the context in which it was written. When one examines classic texts like The Canterbury Tales and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, there are multiple dimensions to consider, including the historical context of medieval England, the evolution of the English language, and the socio-political norms reflected in the stories.

For example, George Orwell's essay "Politics and the English Language" provides a critical examination of how language evolves and how it can be used both to clarify and obscure meaning. This essay can be connected to the analysis of medieval texts in terms of how language shapes our understanding of cultural and historical narratives. Additionally, it presents a lens through which to view the role of authors and texts in influencing culture, as suggested by the practice of New Historicism.

When writing literary analysis papers, it is also essential to consider literary features such as tone, diction, pronouns, and syntax. These elements contribute to the voice and meaning of the work and must be closely analyzed for a comprehensive interpretation. In turn, students can express their views by advocating a particular interpretation, challenging existing interpretations, or applying literary theories to elucidate different perspectives.