U NET : NET SET PHD EXAM

  Elizabethan Age (1558–1603)  The Elizabethan Era refers to the period of Queen Elizabeth I’s reign (1558–1603) in England. It is often called the Golden Age of England because of its achievements in literature, arts, politics, and exploration . 1. Political Background Queen Elizabeth I ascended the throne in 1558 after the death of Mary I. Known for political stability after years of religious and civil turmoil. Elizabethan Religious Settlement (1559) : Established the Church of England as a middle path between Catholicism and Protestantism . Avoided major conflicts with nobles and Parliament; strengthened monarchy . England faced external threats: Spanish Armada (1588) – defeated by English navy, marking England’s rise as a naval power. 2. Society and Economy Social Structure : Monarch → Nobility → Gentry → Merchants → Peasants. Agriculture : Main occupation; enclosure movement increased land productivity. Trade and Commerce : Growth o...

The Restoration Age in English literature spans from 1660 to 1700, and it is characterized by the restoration of the monarchy under King Charles II. Here are some important events, years, works, and writers from this period that are relevant for the NET exam: 1660: Restoration of the monarchy with the return of King Charles II. 1660-1685: Reign of King Charles II. 1660-1690: The period is also known as the "Age of Dryden," named after the prominent writer John Dryden. 1667: "Paradise Lost" by John Milton is published, though it is more commonly associated with the earlier period. 1667: "Paradise Regained" by John Milton is published. 1667-1685: Samuel Pepys' diary, a valuable historical and literary source, is written during this time. 1669: "The Diary of Samuel Pepys" is completed. 1670: The Royal Society is founded, reflecting the growing importance of science during this period. 1670-1685: The periodical essay becomes popular. Notable e...