Introduction to the Literature of Europe in the Fifteenth, Sixteenth, and Seventeenth Centuries, Vol. 1

"Introduction to the Literature of Europe in the Fifteenth, Sixteenth, and Seventeenth Centuries" by Henry Hallam is a historical account written in the early 19th century. This extensive work examines the evolution of European literature from the late Middle Ages through to the early Renaissance, highlighting significant authors, movements, and literary styles of the time. Hallam's meticulous approach offers insights into how socio-political changes influenced literary production and highlights the interplay between literature and other fields such as philosophy and science. The opening of this scholarly work sets the stage for a comprehensive analysis by reflecting on the state of literature during the Middle Ages leading up to the 14th century. It discusses the loss of learning after the fall of the Roman Empire, the decline of poetic talent during the Dark Ages, the influence of religious institutions on literature, and the gradual emergence of schools and universities that fostered learning and new literary forms. Hallam outlines the historical context of language development, particularly focusing on the transition from Latin to vernacular languages, which paved the way for future literary achievements in Europe. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Henry Hallam was an English historian. Educated at Eton and Christ Church, Oxford, he practised as a barrister on the Oxford circuit for some years before turning to history. His major works were View of the State of Europe during the Middle Ages (1818), The Constitutional History of England (1827), and Introduction to the Literature of Europe, in the Fifteenth, Sixteenth and Seventeenth Centuries (1837). Although he took no part in politics himself, he was well acquainted with the band of authors and politicians who led the Whig party. In an 1828 review of Constitutional History, Robert Southey claimed that the work was biased in favour of the Whigs.