Banumathi K's Literature Insights : August 2025

August 20, 2025

Look Back in Anger By John Osborne Summary, Look Back in Anger By John Osborne Essay, Look Back in Anger Essay, Look Back in Anger Summary, Look Back in Anger By John Osborne

Look Back in Anger By John Osborne 

Look Back in Anger Short Essay

Introduction
          Look Back in Anger shows life in 1950s Britain after World War II. Jimmy represents the angry young men who were educated but had few chances for good jobs. The play highlights the gap between working-class and upper-class people, along with struggles with money, love, and identity.

Conflict at Home
          The play begins with Jimmy, Alison, and Cliff. Jimmy constantly insults Alison and her family, showing his anger at the upper class. He remembers his past happy days with his lover Madeline. Alison is pregnant, but unknowingly, Jimmy curses that her unborn child will die so she can feel real pain.

Breaking Relationships
          Helena, Alison’s friend, encourages her to leave Jimmy. Colonel Redfern, Alison’s father, arrives to take her away. Before leaving, Alison writes a farewell letter. After her departure, Helena unexpectedly begins a relationship with Jimmy.

Return and Loss
          Months later, Alison comes back after losing her baby. Helena realizes her mistake and leaves Jimmy. The tragedy finally brings Alison and Jimmy together again as they reconnect through their playful bear and squirrel game.

Conclusion
          The play ends with Alison and Jimmy reunited, showing how pain and love shape relationships in a divided society.

August 16, 2025

Sir Roger in London by Joseph Addison Summary, Sir Roger in London by Joseph Addison Essay, Sir Roger in London Essay, Sir Roger in London Summary, Sir Roger in London by Joseph Addison

Sir Roger in London by Joseph Addison

Sir Roger in London Short Essay 

Introduction:
          The essay Sir Roger in London was written by Joseph Addison and published in The Spectator magazine. The narrator shares how Sir Roger arrives unexpectedly, brings news from the countryside, and shows his generous and good-humoured nature.

Meeting in London:
          One morning, the narrator was surprised to learn that Sir Roger had arrived in London to see Prince Eugene. At Gray’s Inn Walks, Sir Roger scolded a beggar for laziness but kindly gave him sixpence. He then shared news from home. His chaplain was healthy and had recently preached an excellent sermon; Sir Roger had trusted him with parish duties and money for the poor. Will Wimble had made tobacco stoppers for country gentlemen but was upset after Tom Touchy sued him for cutting sticks from his hedge. Sir Roger also said that Moll White, who people believed was a witch, had died. He added that he did not believe in witchcraft.

Care for His Country People:
           Sir Roger fondly described his Christmas traditions. He kept his house open, killed eight pigs, shared meat with neighbours, and gave every poor family puddings and playing cards. He offered strong beer, beef, and mince pies so no one suffered in the cold. He also loved to see his tenants cheerful, playing harmless tricks on one another, with Will Wimble the merriest of all.

Sir Roger’s Curiosity:
          Sir Roger asked about the Spectator Club, especially Sir Andrew Freeport, his political rival, but quickly dropped politics. Then, he spoke at length about Prince Eugene. Later, Sir Roger took the narrator to Squire’s Coffee-house, where his polite and cheerful manner impressed everyone.

Conclusion:
          Sir Roger’s visit shows his warmth, generosity, and curiosity. Even in London, he brings the same kindness and humour that he shows at home in the countryside.

August 13, 2025

The Unknown Citizen by W. H. Auden Essay, The Unknown Citizen by W. H. Auden Summary, The Unknown Citizen by W. H. Auden

The Unknown Citizen by W. H. Auden
Short Essay 

Introduction
          The Unknown Citizen by W. H. Auden is a satirical elegy written in 1939. It describes the life of a man who lived exactly as society and the government wanted, without questioning or rebelling.

A Perfect Record
          The State built a marble monument for JS/07 M378. Reports from the Bureau of Statistics show he never caused trouble or complained. He worked for Fudge Motors Inc. until retirement, except when he served in the war. His employer was satisfied, his political opinions were ordinary, and his union was harmless. Friends enjoyed his company.

Material Comforts and Habits
        Official records show he bought newspapers, responded to advertisements, had proper insurance, and only stayed in a hospital once. He owned all the things a modern man should have—radio, car, fridge, and record player. 

Family and Public Attitude
          He supported the State’s ideas. Public Opinion reports confirmed he had the right views, agreed with peace in peacetime, and fought in wartime. He married, had five children, and never interfered with his children’s education by questioning teachers. 

Conclusion
          The poem ends by mocking the idea of measuring a person only through statistics. The narrator says it’s silly to ask if he was happy or free—because if there was any problem, the State would have known.

My Last Duchess by Robert Browning Essay, My Last Duchess by Robert Browning summary, My Last Duchess by Robert Browning

My Last Duchess by Robert Browning
Short Essay 

Introduction:
          My Last Duchess by Robert Browning is a dramatic monologue where the Duke of Ferrara talks to a visitor about a portrait of his late wife. His words slowly reveal his pride, jealousy, and cruelty.

The Portrait:
          The duke shows the guest a lifelike painting of the former duchess by Fra Pandolf. Only he can draw the curtain to show it. Visitors often wonder about her happy, passionate expression. The duke hints it came from small compliments, not just from him.

The Duchess’s Behaviour:
          The duke complains she was too easily pleased. Treating gifts, sunsets, cherries, and rides equally. She valued his pedigree and social position the same as other people’s small presents. He thinks it was beneath him to correct her directly.

The Duke’s Orders:
        He says she smiled at him, but also at others the same way. When this increased, he gave orders to stop her smiles forever, implying he had her killed. Now she exists only in the portrait.

Conclusion:
          The duke then discusses marrying the Count’s daughter, stressing he wants her more than the dowry. On the way downstairs, he points out a bronze statue of Neptune taming a seahorse, another symbol of his desire for control.

Alice Fell by William Wordsworth Essay, Alice Fell by William Wordsworth Summary, Alice Fell by William Wordsworth, Alice Fell Short Essay

Alice Fell by William Wordsworth

Alice Fell Short Essay 

Introduction
          Alice Fell is a narrative poem by William Wordsworth about a short, emotional encounter between the speaker and a young orphan girl named Alice. The poem explores kindness and compassion during a difficult journey on a stormy night.

The Mysterious Sound and Discovery
          While traveling by carriage in heavy rain, the speaker hears a sad moaning sound that seems to follow them. He stops the carriage and finds a little girl crying behind it. She is upset because her old, torn cloak got caught in the wheel.

Alice’s Story and Compassion
           The girl, Alice Fell, explains she is an orphan and is traveling home to Durham. Seeing her grief, the speaker invites her to join the carriage ride. Alice sits beside him, overwhelmed with sorrow, as they continue their journey.

Helping Alice
           At Durham, the speaker tells the innkeeper about Alice and gives money to buy her a new warm cloak. the next day, Alice is proud and happy with her new cloak. This simple act of kindness brings pride and comfort to the orphan girl.

Conclusion
           The poem highlights how small acts of compassion can bring hope and dignity to those in need, reminding readers of the power of kindness.

August 07, 2025

The Reformation and it's Causes and Effects, The Reformation and it's Causes and Effects short essay, The Reformation and it's Causes and Effects detailed Essay, The Reformation and it's Causes and Effects summary

The Reformation - Causes and Effects

The Reformation - Causes and Effects 
Short Essay 

Introduction:
          The Protestant Reformation began in the 1500s when people questioned the Catholic Church's teachings, corruption, and power. It brought major religious, political, and social changes in Europe and led to the creation of new Christian groups called Protestants.

Causes of the Reformation:

1. Religious Discontent – Church leaders were corrupt and focused on wealth. The sale of indulgences angered many.

2. Desire for Religious Reform – Reformers like Martin Luther and John Calvin wanted Christianity to return to Bible-based teachings and faith alone.

3. Political Factors – Kings saw an opportunity to reject the Pope’s authority and gain power by supporting the Reformation.

4. Economic Reasons – Rulers wanted to seize Church land and stop sending money to Rome.

5. Social Change & Printing Press – Humanism and education spread during the Renaissance. The printing press helped people read the Bible in their own language.

6. King Henry VIII’s Divorce – His desire to annul his marriage led to the creation of the Church of England.

Effects of the Reformation:

1. Church of England – Henry VIII broke from Rome and formed a new church.

2. Religious Practices Changed – Protestants stopped indulgences, used simpler worship, and read the Bible in local languages.

3. Persecution and Conflict – Catholics and Protestants persecuted each other, leading to wars like the Thirty Years’ War.

4. Stabilization under Elizabeth I – She blended Protestant and Catholic practices to unify England.

5. Economic & Social Change – Church lands were taken; trade, literacy, and early capitalism grew.

6. Cultural Impact – People questioned authority, valued individual rights, and supported freedom of religion.

7. Political Consolidation – Kings gained more control over religion, building stronger states.

8. International Relations – Countries aligned by religion, causing alliances and conflicts.

Counter-Reformation (Catholic Response):
           The Catholic Church launched reforms to fix problems and resist Protestantism. The Council of Trent banned indulgence abuse and clarified Catholic beliefs. Jesuits promoted Catholic education and faith. The Church became more disciplined and active, though Europe remained religiously divided.

Conclusion:
          The Reformation changed Europe forever. It started as a protest but led to new churches, stronger nations, and more individual freedom. Martin Luther's actions inspired people to think for themselves. Its legacy is still visible in today’s world.

August 05, 2025

The Railway Clerk by Nissim Ezekiel Essay, The Railway Clerk by Nissim Ezekiel summary, The Railway Clerk by Nissim Ezekiel, The Railway Clerk summary, The Railway Clerk Essay

The Railway Clerk by Nissim Ezekiel

The Railway Clerk Short Essay 

Introduction:
          The Railway Clerk by Nissim Ezekiel is a dramatic monologue in which a middle-class railway clerk shares the struggles of his everyday life. Though he has a secure government job, his life is full of pain, pressure, and problems.

Struggles at Work:
         The clerk is honest and hardworking but is never appreciated. He completes all his duties sincerely, yet his superiors find mistakes and scold him. His leave requests are rejected twice, and he is forced to work overtime without extra pay. He sits at a small desk, under a broken fan, struggling in uncomfortable conditions.

Family Pressure and Daily Stress:
         His salary is too low to meet his family’s basic needs. He has no savings and lives from one payday to the next. His wife keeps asking for money, and his sick mother-in-law depends on him completely. Most of his income goes toward her treatment, yet it’s not enough. He travels daily from Borivili, returns tired, and has no time for his children, who are now careless about studies.

No Promotion or Extra Income:
        The clerk cannot earn bribes like some of his lucky colleagues. He feels stuck, with no chance of promotion since he lacks a college degree. He wishes to be a bird, free from the stress, struggle, and pain of human life.

Small Joys, Heavy Worries:
         His life feels dull and lifeless. Only Sundays bring him a little happiness when he watches a movie. Sometimes, he meets his friends, and they mainly talk about the problems of the country. His friends think about going abroad, but he can't even imagine that — his mind is filled with personal worries.

Conclusion:
         The poem shows the painful reality of many honest workers whose efforts go unrecognized. The railway clerk stands for thousands who struggle quietly every day.

August 01, 2025

Persuasion by Jane Austen essay, Persuasion essay, Persuasion by Jane Austen summary, Persuasion summary, Persuasion by Jane Austen

Persuasion by Jane Austen

Persuasion by Jane Austen Short Essay

Introduction
          Persuasion by Jane Austen tells the story of Anne Elliot, the daughter of Sir Walter Elliot, a baronet. The Elliots are proud but facing financial troubles. Sir Walter has spent too much money, so they rent out their family home, Kellynch Hall, and move to Bath. Anne stays behind at Uppercross with her sister Mary.

Anne and Captain Wentworth
          Years earlier, Anne had been engaged to Captain Frederick Wentworth, but she was persuaded by Lady Russell to end the engagement because Wentworth was poor. Now, he returns as a successful and wealthy navy officer. His sister, Mrs. Croft, and her husband, Admiral Croft, are the new tenants at Kellynch Hall. Anne sees Wentworth again, but he treats her with cold politeness.

The Visit to Lyme and Mr. Elliot’s Interest
          At Lyme, Anne meets a polite man who shows interest in her. He turns out to be Mr. William Elliot, her cousin and the heir to her father’s baronetcy. Later in Bath, Anne’s friend Mrs. Smith reveals the truth—Mr. Elliot only wants to marry Anne to protect his inheritance. He fears that Mrs. Clay might marry Sir Walter and have a son, which would take away his title and property.

Reunion and True Love
          Meanwhile, Captain Wentworth is still in love with Anne, though unsure of her feelings. He finally writes her a heartfelt letter, expressing his love. Anne is deeply moved. They talk, clear their misunderstandings, and get engaged once again.

Conclusion
          The novel ends on a happy note. Anne and Captain Wentworth are reunited, and their love is stronger than before—tested by time, separation, and personal growth. Jane Austen’s Persuasion beautifully shows that true love can return when the heart is steady and sincere.