Chapter 1 Introduction 1
1.1 Definition of literature 1
1.2 Bible and literature 3
1.3 Literature and meaning 4
Chapter 2 Poetry 6
2.1 Definition of poetry 6
2.2 Types of poetry 11
2.3 Elements of poetry 33
2.4 Poetic devices 56
2.5 Poems for study 90
Chapter 3 Drama 181
3.1 Definition of drama 181
3.2 Types of drama 182
3.3 Elements of tragedy and comedy 199
3.4 Devices and techniques 206
3.5 Stage and theatre 223
3.6 Plays for study 229
Chapter 4 Fiction 257
4.1 Definition and history of the novel 257
4.2 Types of fiction 262
4.3 Elements of fiction 298
4.4 Techniques 306
4.5 Fictions for study 311
Appendix Ⅰ Nobel Prize Winners 359
Appendix Ⅱ Pulitzer Prize Winners 363
Appendix Ⅲ British Literary Prizes 375
Appendix Ⅳ American Literary Prizes 376
Appendix Ⅴ British and American Holidays 377
Works Cited 379