Understanding the historical context of a work of literature is important to better comprehend, and ultimately enjoy, that work and fully appreciate its significance. When reading a play by Shakespeare, for instance, the reader will benefit from knowing the religious, political, and social changes that took place in England when he wrote some of his works - that is, the historical context. <em>Othello</em> or <em>King Lear</em>, just to name some of his most renowned works, were composed during James I's reign, which was characterized by a fierce absolutism, hence the themes around which those plays revolve - ambition, betrayal, greed, fate, jealousy, and hatred, to name a few.
Historical context is the time period in which a piece of writing is created or the historical setting of a text. It refers to the political, social, and cultural events of a time period that influence an author’s perspective. For example, the damming of the Hetch Hetchy Valley influenced the writing of John Muir and prompted him to write many articles and letters trying to stop it. Understanding historical context is useful to a reader in two ways. It helps the reader understand the author’s perspective and make text-to-world connections, which helps readers to better understand and relate to a text.
<h2>✅noun. absorbing or controlling possession of the mind by any interest or pursuit; lively interest: He shows marked enthusiasm for his studies. an occupation, activity, or pursuit in which such interest is shown: Hunting is his latest enthusiasm. </h2>
