English Literature
Its History and Its Significance for the Life of the English-Speaking World
English Literature: Its History and Its Significance for the Life of the English-Speaking World, published in 1909, is William J. Long's textbook survey of English writing from the Anglo-Saxons to the Victorians, long used in American high schools. Eleven chapters move through the periods, Old English poetry and Beowulf, the Norman age, Chaucer, the revival of learning, Elizabeth, the Puritans, the Restoration, the eighteenth century, the Romantics and the Victorians, each with sketches of the major writers, summaries of their chief works, bibliographies, review questions and a chronology. Long writes for young readers and does not hide his preferences, but the book is a clear and orderly introduction to the tradition and a good companion for anyone reading the classics in sequence. It is available to read online in your browser on Vinteuil, with the first chapter free.
Start reading right away, without signing up. The complete text is included in Vinteuil Reading, or yours forever with a one-time purchase.
Frequently asked questions about English Literature
English Literature by William J. Long can be read online on Vinteuil, directly in your browser. The first chapter is free for everyone; the complete book is included in Vinteuil Reading ($4.99/month or $39.99/year) or yours forever for $2.99.
Can I read English Literature online?
Yes. English Literature opens right on this page, in a reader designed for long reading: adjustable text size, light, sepia and dark themes, a clickable table of contents and your place saved when you are signed in. No download or app is needed.
Is English Literature free to read on Vinteuil?
The first chapter of English Literature is free, without an account. To read the whole book, either buy its online reading for $2.99 (£2.99 in the UK) and keep it forever, or subscribe to Vinteuil Reading for $4.99/month (£4.99/month in the UK) or $39.99/year, with 1 month free for new subscribers. The subscription opens every book in the library and can be cancelled at any time.
Is English Literature in the public domain?
Yes. English Literature by William J. Long is a public-domain work. Vinteuil offers a carefully prepared digital edition made for comfortable reading on screen.
How long does it take to read English Literature?
About 14 h 05 min of reading, at an average reading pace. Your place is saved automatically when you are signed in, so you can read in several sittings and on several devices.
What kind of book is English Literature?
English Literature by William J. Long is filed under "Essays & Letters" in the Vinteuil library.
