ллл (hhh)### English Literature of the 20th Century
The 20th century was a very important period for English literature. Many great writers created famous books, poems, and plays. Their works showed the changes in society, wars, new ideas, and people’s feelings.
#### Main Features of 20th‑Century Literature
In the 20th century, writers started to use new styles and topics:
* Different genres. Authors wrote novels, short stories, poetry, and drama. Many books mixed several genres.
* New ideas. Writers explored themes like war, freedom, identity, and modern life.
* Modern techniques. Some authors used unusual ways to tell stories — for example, showing characters’ thoughts and memories.
* Real life. Many books described real problems people faced in the 20th century.
#### Important Periods
The 20th century had several literary periods:
1. Early 20th century (1900–1930s)
This time was full of changes. Writers often showed the effects of World War I. They used new styles like *modernism* — focusing on characters’ inner thoughts.
Famous authors: James Joyce, Virginia Woolf, D. H. Lawrence.
2. Mid‑20th century (1940s–1960s)
World War II influenced many books. Writers showed the horrors of war and its impact on people. Some books were also about hope and rebuilding life.
Famous authors: George Orwell, Graham Greene, William Golding.
3. Late 20th century (1970s–1990s)
Authors wrote about social changes, technology, and personal freedom. They experimented with new styles and mixed genres.
Famous authors: Salman Rushdie, Margaret Drabble, Ian McEwan.
#### Famous Books and Writers
Here are some well‑known works from the 20th century:
* «1984» by George Orwell — a novel about a future society with no freedom. It shows how governments can control people.
* «Lord of the Flies» by William Golding — a story about boys on a desert island. It explores human nature and violence.
* «To the Lighthouse» by Virginia Woolf — a modernist novel that shows characters’ thoughts and feelings.
* «Brave New World» by Aldous Huxley — a book about a future world where people are controlled by technology and drugs.
* «The Catcher in the Rye» by J. D. Salinger — a story about a young man who feels lost in the world. It talks about growing up and finding your place.