British literature refers to the body of written works produced in the United Kingdom, encompassing a wide range of genres, styles, and historical periods. It includes notable authors such as William Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and Charles Dickens, whose works have significantly influenced literature worldwide. The literature often reflects the social, political, and cultural contexts of its time. The timeline of British literature spans from the early medieval period, with texts like Beowulf, to contemporary works by authors such as Zadie Smith and Ian McEwan. Key movements include Romanticism, Victorian literature, and Modernism, each contributing unique themes and perspectives to the literary landscape.