Provides an introduction to literature and its context from 1688-1789. This guide includes: the historical, cultural and intellectual background including the expansion of cultural production and the growth of 'print culture'; major writers, genres and groups; and explanations of key terms needed to understand the literature and criticism.

1. Introduction; 2. Historical, Cultural and Intellectual Context; - Politics and Society; - Religion, Science and Philosophy; - Arts and Culture; 3. Literature in the Eighteenth Century; - Introduction; - Major Genres; - Literary Groups; 4. Critical Approaches; - Historical Overview; - Current Issues and Debates; 5. Resources for Independent Study; - Chronology of Historical Events, Cultural Events and Publications; - Glossary of Key Literary Terms and Concepts; - Further Reading and Resources; Works Cited; Index.

"With focuses on the many writers of the era and their common techniques, enhanced with a chronology of world history's major writings, Eighteenth-Century Literature and Culture is a top pick for anyone who wants to educate themselves on the era and for community library literary studies collections." -Midwest Book Review

Introductions to British Literature and Culture provide practical guides to key literary periods. Guides in the series help to orientate students as they begin a new module or area of study, providing concise information on the historical, cultural, literary and critical context and acting as an initial map of the knowledge needed to study the literature and culture of a specific period. Each guide includes an overview of the historical period, intellectual contexts, major genres, critical approaches and a guide to original research and resource materials in the area, enabling students to progress confidently to further study.