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The library has a number of resources on British literature that can provide valuable introductions.
Just In! Oxford Handbook of Tudor Literature PR413.O94 (REF) | Google Book Preview
BACKGROUND SELECTIONS
Shakespeare Reference Sources PR2892 etc.
BACKGROUND EXAMPLES FROM THE COLLECTION (Second floor)
Look for titles held by Frank E Gannett Library. Other titles available through interlibrary loan
English prose literature Early modern, 1500-1700
English literature Early modern, 1500-1700 History and criticism
England Civilization 16th century
Great Britain History Tudors, 1485-1603