English Literature History

[~Ji]

I'm looking for a recommendation for a reasonably priced 'History of English Literature'. Something that is readable for the slightly more than casual enthusiast and something that covers the main eras and players. The emphasis is on English literature, not literature written in English.

I look forward to some helpful direction.

[Danik 2016]

I don´t know if it´s the best, but it´s free and available on Litnet. Could be a good start for deciding what to focus on:
http://www.online-literature.com/periods/

[OrphanPip]

I'm looking for a recommendation for a reasonably priced 'History of English Literature'. Something that is readable for the slightly more than casual enthusiast and something that covers the main eras and players. The emphasis is on English literature, not literature written in English.

I look forward to some helpful direction.

Depends what you're looking for. Do you want an anthology that includes historical contexts and information alongside the excerpts of the primary texts? If that's the case, I would go with the Norton Anthology of English Literature. There are 6 volumes, each one usually selling for about 30 USD, but if you live near a university you can find used copies for cheap.

If you're looking for a historical overview without a main emphasis on the primary texts, maybe go with the Short Oxford History of English Literature.