Final answer:
After Donaldson v. Beckett, copyrights were expanded to cover literary works, artistic creations, and musical compositions, among others, but not scientific discoveries. Copyright offers protection from unauthorized use and typically lasts for the lifetime of the author plus 70 years.
Step-by-step explanation:
After the legal case of Donaldson v. Beckett, copyrights were definitively expanded to encompass a variety of creative works. According to the U.S. Copyright Office, a copyright offers protection for 'original works of authorship' which include:
- Literary works
- Artistic creations, such as pictorial, graphic, and sculptural works
- Musical compositions, including any accompanying words
- Dramatic works, choreographic works, and pantomimes
- Architectural works
However, it's important to note that scientific discoveries are not covered by copyright but are often protected under patent law. Copyright protection is designed to prevent unauthorized reproduction, display, or performance of these works, and lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years posthumously.