This book offers intermediate learners of English as aForeign Language an original and stimulating learning experience. It introducesthem to the beginnings of British literature, starting from the Anglo-Saxonworld and continuing up to the beginning of the Renaissance. The texts chosencover the development of poetry, narrative and the theatre, and the historicaland social context from which they are drawn. No attempt has been made to offeran encyclopaedic survey of all authors and their works. Rather, arepresentative selection has been made from the various historical periods,including many classic works. The activities designed in this book are essential for thereader who wishes to access other works of British Literature. The bookcontains scaffolded exercises that will lead the reader to develop theirreading comprehension and to consolidate their knowledge of this literaryfield. This is in addition to practicing the second language and applying whatthey have learned through creative activities. In view of its careful and systematic integration ofliterature and language, this book will be an indispensable tool for anyone whowishes to get closer to British literature as they improve theirEnglish-language skills. Just as Hamlet concludes that "The plays the thing /Wherein Ill catch the conscience of the King", the authors hope that thisbook will catch the readers conscience so that they can witness in the presentwhat happened in the past which is still alive among us. "The rest issilence" (Hamlet, Shakespeare); all literature is made of silences.