The release of An Introduction to English Literature by Dr V. Basil Hans and Dr Severine Pinto marks a significant addition to academic resources in the field of literary studies. This book offers readers a foundational yet rich perspective on English literature, covering essential topics such as the meaning and importance of literature, types of literary works—fiction and non-fiction—and core elements of fiction, including setting, plot, character development, themes, and stylistic features. With a structure designed to guide beginners as well as enrich the understanding of seasoned readers, the book presents literature not merely as a subject, but as a reflection of human experience across time.
Spanning from the Anglo-Saxon age to contemporary writings, the book introduces readers to major literary figures like Chaucer, Shakespeare, Milton, Austen, Dickens, Woolf, and T.S. Eliot, along with other influential voices that shaped various literary movements and historical contexts. It explores how literature responds to and influences culture, society, and philosophical thought, offering readers the ability to appreciate both the aesthetic and critical dimensions of literary texts.
Dr V. Basil Hans, a veteran educator and prolific writer with 38 years of academic experience, brings scholarly depth to this work. Currently a Research Professor at Srinivas University, Mangalore, Dr Hans is widely recognized for his multidisciplinary contributions and is a noted Google Scholar. Co-author Dr Severine Pinto, Associate Professor at St Aloysius Deemed to be University, has over 19 years of experience in teaching and academic writing. Her work reflects a deep commitment to education, research, and training.
Together, the authors present a text that is both academically rigorous and engaging for general readers. The book serves as a valuable resource for students, teachers, and literary enthusiasts who wish to understand the vast landscape of English literature in a clear, approachable manner.