The three major divisions of Neoclassical literature are:

ARestoration, Elizabethan, Georgian

BClassical, Medieval, Romantic

CRestoration, Augustan, Age of Sensibility

DRestoration, Romantic, Post-Romantic

Answer:

Neoclassical literature, spanning roughly from 1660 to 1785, emphasized reason, logic, order, and classical forms, drawing inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman literature. It followed the tumultuous English Civil War and the Interregnum.
The term 'Neoclassical' itself signifies a 'new classicism,' reflecting a renewed interest in classical models and principles.

This period marks the return of King Charles II to the English throne in 1660, restoring the monarchy after the Commonwealth period.
Key characteristics include a shift from Puritan severity to a more secular and satirical tone, particularly in drama.
Prominent Literary Forms: Restoration Comedy (Comedy of Manners) and Heroic Drama.
Key Authors and Works:
- John Dryden: A dominant figure, known for his satires (e.g., Mac Flecknoe, Absalom and Achitophel), heroic plays (e.g., All for Love), and literary criticism (e.g., An Essay of Dramatic Poesy). He is often called the 'Father of English Criticism'.
- William Wycherley: Author of The Country Wife, a notable Restoration comedy.
- William Congreve: Author of The Way of the World, another classic Comedy of Manners.
The Royal Society was founded during this era (1660), promoting scientific inquiry and clear prose, influencing literary style towards precision and plainness.

This period is named after the reign of Emperor Augustus in Rome, which was considered a golden age of literature. English writers aimed to emulate the sophistication and satirical wit of Roman authors like Horace and Virgil.
It is often considered the 'Age of Reason' or 'Age of Pope,' due to the dominance of satire, wit, and emphasis on rationality and social commentary.
Prominent Literary Forms: Satire, mock-epic, essays, and early forms of the novel.
Key Authors and Works:
- Alexander Pope: The most important poet of the era, known for his heroic couplets and satirical works (e.g., The Rape of the Lock (a mock-epic), Dunciad, An Essay on Man).
- Jonathan Swift: Renowned for his biting political and social satires (e.g., Gulliver's Travels, A Modest Proposal).
- Joseph Addison and Richard Steele: Collaborated on influential periodicals like The Tatler and The Spectator, which shaped public opinion and refined prose style.
- Daniel Defoe: Considered one of the earliest novelists with works like Robinson Crusoe and Moll Flanders.
There was a strong emphasis on urban life, social etiquette, and a critical view of human folly.

Also known as the 'Age of Johnson' (due to Samuel Johnson's influence) or the 'Pre-Romantic' period, it shows a gradual transition away from strict Neoclassical adherence towards more emotional and individualistic expression.
While still valuing reason, there was an increasing interest in feeling, sentiment, the sublime, and nature, foreshadowing Romanticism.
Prominent Literary Forms: Sentimental novel, Gothic novel, elegiac poetry, and early Romantic poetry.
Key Authors and Works:
- Samuel Johnson: A towering literary figure, known for his Dictionary of the English Language, essays (e.g., The Rambler), and biographical work Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets.
- Oliver Goldsmith: Author of the novel The Vicar of Wakefield and the play She Stoops to Conquer.
- Richard Brinsley Sheridan: Known for his satirical comedies, particularly The School for Scandal.
- Thomas Gray: His poem Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard is a classic example of pre-Romantic sensibility and elegiac verse.
- William Blake: Though largely considered a Romantic poet, his early works (e.g., Songs of Innocence) emerged at the very end of this period, bridging the gap.
The rise of the novel as a dominant literary form continued, exploring domestic life and personal emotions.

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