Unit 2. Restoration Age

This unit focuses on the Restoration period, a significant era in English literature that followed the return of Charles II to the throne in 1660. Marked by the revival of the monarchy, this period saw the resurgence of drama, satire, and a shift toward more secular and worldly themes in literature. Students will examine how political, social, and intellectual changes—such as the rise of rationalism and the rejection of Puritan austerity—shaped literary expression.

Key authors such as John Dryden, Aphra Behn, and Samuel Pepys will be studied, with particular attention to the revival of theatre, including the development of Restoration comedy. Students will explore Dryden’s heroic plays and Behn’s pioneering role as one of the first professional female writers in English literature. Additionally, satire and the role of wit in social commentary will be examined, setting the stage for the Augustan Age that follows.

Central texts include:

• John Dryden’s Absalom and Achitophel and Mac Flecknoe (satirical works)
• Aphra Behn’s The Rover (Restoration comedy)
• Samuel Pepys’ Diary (primary historical source)

This unit also delves into the re-opening of theatres, the new developments in prose, and the emergence of periodicals and journalism, which reflect the growing engagement with public life and politics in literary discourse.