Book: English Literature and Society in the Eighteenth Century

Introduction
"English Literature and Society in the Eighteenth Century" is a 1904 book composed by Leslie Stephen that analyzes the significant works and trends in British literature throughout the eighteenth century. This duration was marked by enormous shifts in society and politics, including the increase of the middle class, the growth of the British Empire, and the development of new kinds of discourse, such as the novel and periodical essays. Stephen's work offers insights into the methods which literature both reflected and added to these changes in the wider society.

The Eighteenth Century: A Period of Change
In the book, Stephen highlights that the eighteenth century was a period of substantial change, both in literature and society. Throughout this time, Britain experienced rapid financial growth and social development, which was reflected in the literature of the period. Writers started to break away from the customs and rules of classical literature, welcoming new literary categories and modes of expression, like the novel, satire, and essays. It was also a time of increased literacy and the growth of the printing press which resulted in the popularization of literature, enabling individuals from varied backgrounds, including women and the lower classes, to take part in literary development and discussion.

Main Literary Genres
Stephen identifies three primary literary genres that shaped the eighteenth century. The first is the periodical essay, which got appeal throughout this era through publications like Samuel Johnson's 'The Rambler' and Joseph Addison and Richard Steele's 'The Spectator'. Periodical essays provided an accessible platform for readers to go over and dispute social, political, and ethical problems of the day.

The second category is the novel, which emerged as a dominant form of literature in the eighteenth century. Stephen discusses the works of writers such as Daniel Defoe, Samuel Richardson, and Henry Fielding, who pioneered the novel type through their expedition of styles like social class, individualism, and the tension between virtue and vice.

Finally, satire and parody flourished throughout the eighteenth century, reflecting the period's political and social discontent. Writers like Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift used humor and ridicule to critique and expose the follies and vices of society, thus promoting the values of factor, morality, and balance.

Noteworthy Writers and Society's Impact on Their Work
The book delves into the lives and works of important writers of the eighteenth century and analyzes how social context influenced their literature. For instance, Stephen highlights the relationship between Jonathan Swift's political satires, such as "Gulliver's Travels" and "A Modest Proposal", and his disillusionment with the corruption and inefficiency of the federal government and ruling classes.

Likewise, Stephen discusses how the books of Jane Austen address concerns central to ladies's social functions and gender relations in the era, while likewise showing Austen's subtle critique of the class system and its hypocrisies.

Conclusion
In his book, Leslie Stephen provides a comprehensive and informative examination of the literature of the eighteenth century and its connections with society. By analyzing literary categories like periodical essays, books, and satires, Stephen exposes the methods which authors responded to and shaped the sociopolitical and cultural transformations of the period. Additionally, he stresses the significance of literature as both a mirror and an agent for change in society throughout this era.

Eventually, "English Literature and Society in the Eighteenth Century" provides valuable insight into the interconnectedness of literature and society, showcasing the crucial role that writers play in reflecting, critiquing, and shaping the world around them.