Who was Absalom? What was Deism? When was the Industrial Revolution? How do you tell a strong rhyme from a weak? And what do you do when panic sets in at the approach of exams? The Literature Student’s Survival Kit gives students embarking on a literature degree all the background information they need to stay afloat. It brings together the essential biblical, classical, historical, and academic material in a one–stop reference book that includes: An overview of the Bible, its books, characters, episodes, and places. A guide to classical mythology Timelines that situate literary figures in relation to historical events and key social, cultural, and linguistic changes Information on individuals, events, movements, and concepts that had an impact on the literature of each period A glossary of literary terms, with a separate section on poetry Advice on how to handle essays and exams at university level. Written in a clear and accessible style, The Literature Student’s Survival Kit will enable students to approach their studies with confidence.