1. Historical background; The Constitutional monarchy set up by parliament in 1688 was a compromise between the bourgeoisie and the aristocrats The cultural life had undergone remarkable changes Newton's scientific discovery and the philosophy of John Locke affected people's thinking of the world Reason rather than superstition dominated English literature was influenced by french enlighteners and ancient roman writers Neo-classicism was the leading literary trend in ear 18th century 2021/2/23 22021/2/23 2 1. Historical background: ◼ The Constitutional monarchy set up by parliament in 1688 was a compromise between the bourgeoisie and the aristocrats. ◼ The cultural life had undergone remarkable changes. ◼ Newton’s scientific discovery and the philosophy of John Locke affected people’s thinking of the world. ◼ Reason rather than superstition dominated. ◼ English literature was influenced by French enlighteners and ancient Roman writers. ◼ Neo-classicism was the leading literary trend in early 18th century