The history of English literature spans over a thousand years, beginning with the Old English period around the 5th century. Notable works from this era include Beowulf, an epic poem that reflects the values and culture of early medieval England. The literature evolved through the Middle English period, marked by the writings of Geoffrey Chaucer, whose work, The Canterbury Tales, showcased the diversity of English society. The Renaissance brought a flourishing of literature, highlighted by playwrights like William Shakespeare and poets such as John Milton. The 18th century introduced the novel as a popular form, with authors like Daniel Defoe and Jane Austen. The 19th century saw the rise of Romanticism and Victorian literature, featuring writers like Charles Dickens and Emily Brontë, shaping the landscape of modern English literature.