Rise Of English Pdf | Terry Eagleton The

Eagleton demolishes this myth. He points out that English as a formal university subject didn't really exist until the late 19th century. And why then? Not because of a sudden aesthetic awakening, but because of a political panic.

: He argues that the study of English was intentionally used to instill "ruling class values" and "good taste," acting as a stabilizing force to prevent civil unrest and align the middle class with aristocratic sensibilities. Ideology and Imperialism Terry eagleton the rise of english pdf

The British Empire was creaking. Industrial capitalism had created a restless, urban working class. The Church was losing its authority. The aristocracy was in decline. Who was going to keep the masses in line? Eagleton demolishes this myth