BOOKS: The Land and Literature of England

Westminster Abby

"The rock-bound, rain-drenched islands which are now divided into the four ancient nations of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales lie off the northwest coast of Europe, with the English channel to the south of them...." so starts Robert Adams' classic study of English literature and history, "The Land and Literature of England," a unique approach from a master storyteller that weaves a rich texture of cross-references from both history and literature. Adams' premise: English literature should be studied against the backdrop of English history. According to Adams when you mention English literature you mean English history, so tied up is English literature to the history of the British Isles that they are inseparable. Using this approach the reader comes away with a much better understanding of the broad context from which English literature emerged through the centuries. Comparing "Land and the Literature" to other broad surveys of literature makes most seem as dry as sawdust. Covered are periods from the early Anglo Saxon invasions up until 1950. Adams presents the study of English Literature through a much wider perspective than most__a worthwhile read.