Literary history is the study of how literature has developed over time. It looks at different periods, styles, and movements, such as Romanticism or Modernism, and how they reflect the culture and society of their time. By examining works from authors like William Shakespeare or Virginia Woolf, we can see how their writing was influenced by historical events and social changes. This field also explores the connections between different literary works and genres. For example, it investigates how poetry has evolved from ancient times to the present day, or how novels have changed in response to technological advancements. Understanding literary history helps us appreciate the richness of literature and its impact on human thought and expression.