This book offers intermediate learners of English as a
Foreign Language an original and stimulating learning experience. It introduces
them to the beginnings of British literature, starting from the Anglo-Saxon
world and continuing up to the beginning of the Renaissance. The texts chosen
cover the development of poetry, narrative and the theatre, and the historical
and social context from which they are drawn. No attempt has been made to offer
an encyclopaedic survey of all authors and their works. Rather, a
representative selection has been made from the various historical periods,
including many 'classic' works. The activities designed in this book are essential for the
reader who wishes to access other works of British Literature. The book
contains scaffolded exercises that will lead the reader to develop their
reading comprehension and to consolidate their knowledge of this literary
field. This is in addition to practicing the second language and applying what
they have learned through creative activities. In view of its careful and systematic integration of
literature and language, this book will be an indispensable tool for anyone who
wishes to get closer to British literature as they improve their
English-language skills. Just as Hamlet concludes that "The play's the thing /
Wherein I'll catch the conscience of the King", the authors hope that this
book will catch the readers' conscience so that they can witness in the present
what happened in the past which is still alive among us. "The rest is
silence" (Hamlet, Shakespeare); all literature is made of silences.
