BrexLit - The Problem of Englishness in Pre- and Post- Brexit Referendum Literature

Dulcie Everitt's BrexLit combines historical, political, and literary analysis to re-examine the nature of Englishness and offer readers a chance to reflect and heal from the present's dismal anxiety.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 28 January 2022
Publisher: John Hunt Publishing

In this captivating and thought-provoking exploration of Englishness as a complex and contentious concept, Dulcie Everitt skillfully weaves together historical, political, and literary analysis to delve into the very essence of what it means to be English. BrexLit presents readers with a unique opportunity to escape the tumultuous and anxiety-inducing present, allowing them to pause, reflect, and, in many cases, find solace and healing from the prevailing gloom.

Everitt's work challenges the traditional notions of Englishness and explores its multifaceted nature, examining the ways in which it has evolved over centuries and been shaped by a diverse range of factors, including geography, history, culture, and politics. Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, Everitt uncovers the complexities and contradictions that underpin the concept of Englishness, revealing the ways in which it has been both celebrated and contested.

One of the key themes that Everitt explores is the idea of Englishness as a fluid and evolving identity. She argues that Englishness is not a fixed or immutable entity, but rather a dynamic and multifaceted construct that is shaped by a complex interplay of factors, including nationality, ethnicity, religion, language, and culture. Everitt demonstrates how Englishness has been shaped by historical events, such as the Norman Conquest, the Industrial Revolution, and the rise of the British Empire, as well as by contemporary social and political movements, such as the Brexit debate and the ongoing struggle for social justice.

Another important aspect of Everitt's analysis is the role that literature plays in shaping and expressing Englishness. She examines the works of various authors, including Shakespeare, Dickens, Eliot, and Orwell, to explore how they have depicted and interpreted Englishness throughout history. Everitt demonstrates how literature can be used as a tool for exploring and challenging the concept of Englishness, as well as for celebrating its unique qualities and values.

In addition to its academic value, BrexLit offers readers a sense of hope and resilience in the face of the challenges posed by the present. Everitt's work encourages readers to reflect on their own identities and experiences and to consider the ways in which they can contribute to a more inclusive and diverse society. She offers insights into the complexities of the Brexit debate and the ongoing struggles for social justice, providing a framework for understanding and engaging with these issues.

Overall, Dulcie Everitt's BrexLit is a groundbreaking and essential contribution to the study of Englishness and identity. Through her meticulous research, insightful analysis, and engaging writing style, Everitt provides readers with a deeper understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of Englishness and offers hope and resilience in the face of the challenges posed by the present. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of English identity and culture.
In this captivating and thought-provoking exploration of Englishness as a complex and contentious concept, Dulcie Everitt skillfully weaves together historical, political, and literary analysis to delve into the very essence of what it means to be English. BrexLit presents readers with a unique opportunity to escape the tumultuous and anxiety-inducing present, allowing them to pause, reflect, and, in many cases, find solace and healing from the prevailing gloom.

Everitt's work challenges the traditional notions of Englishness and explores its multifaceted nature, examining the ways in which it has evolved over centuries and been shaped by a diverse range of factors, including geography, history, culture, and politics. Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, Everitt uncovers the complexities and contradictions that underpin the concept of Englishness, revealing the ways in which it has been both celebrated and contested.

One of the key themes that Everitt explores is the idea of Englishness as a fluid and evolving identity. She argues that Englishness is not a fixed or immutable entity, but rather a dynamic and multifaceted construct that is shaped by a complex interplay of factors, including nationality, ethnicity, religion, language, and culture. Everitt demonstrates how Englishness has been shaped by historical events, such as the Norman Conquest, the Industrial Revolution, and the rise of the British Empire, as well as by contemporary social and political movements, such as the Brexit debate and the ongoing struggle for social justice.

Another important aspect of Everitt's analysis is the role that literature plays in shaping and expressing Englishness. She examines the works of various authors, including Shakespeare, Dickens, Eliot, and Orwell, to explore how they have depicted and interpreted Englishness throughout history. Everitt demonstrates how literature can be used as a tool for exploring and challenging the concept of Englishness, as well as for celebrating its unique qualities and values.

In addition to its academic value, BrexLit offers readers a sense of hope and resilience in the face of the challenges posed by the present. Everitt's work encourages readers to reflect on their own identities and experiences and to consider the ways in which they can contribute to a more inclusive and diverse society. She offers insights into the complexities of the Brexit debate and the ongoing struggles for social justice, providing a framework for understanding and engaging with these issues.

Overall, Dulcie Everitt's BrexLit is a groundbreaking and essential contribution to the study of Englishness and identity. Through her meticulous research, insightful analysis, and engaging writing style, Everitt provides readers with a deeper understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of Englishness and offers hope and resilience in the face of the challenges posed by the present. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of English identity and culture.

Weight: 250g
Dimension: 140 x 217 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789047370