Write a note on the growth of prose in the 18 century England. [British Poetry (2018-19) Assignment 2]

The 18th century in England saw a significant growth in the production of prose literature, with the emergence of new genres, styles, and themes. This growth was fueled by several factors, including the expansion of the reading public, the rise of the novel, the growth of the middle class, and the development of new forms of journalism and literary criticism.

One of the most significant developments of the 18th century was the rise of the novel as a dominant literary form. Novels offered a new kind of prose narrative that focused on character development, social realism, and psychological insight. This genre was popularized by writers such as Daniel Defoe, Samuel Richardson, and Henry Fielding, who created works that explored the complexities of human nature and the social dynamics of their time.

Another important development in 18th century prose was the growth of periodicals, newspapers, and magazines. These publications offered a platform for writers to showcase their work and engage in political, cultural, and social debates of the time. The most famous of these publications was The Spectator, a daily newspaper founded by Joseph Addison and Richard Steele, which featured essays, stories, and commentary on a wide range of topics.

The 18th century also witnessed a growth in the production of biographies, travelogues, and other forms of non-fiction prose. These works were often inspired by the desire to explore new territories, cultures, and ideas, and they offered readers a window into the wider world beyond their immediate surroundings. Some of the most famous works in this genre include Samuel Johnson's "Lives of the Poets," James Boswell's "Life of Johnson," and Edward Gibbon's "The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire."

Overall, the growth of prose in 18th century England was a reflection of the changing social, political, and cultural landscape of the time. Prose literature offered a means of exploring and commenting on the complexities of life in a rapidly changing world, and it continues to be a rich and diverse genre that speaks to readers across the centuries.