English literature reached its peak during three distinct periods: 1740-1770, 1840-1890, and 1905-1930. The 1740-1770 group of novelists is comprised of Samuel Richardson, Henry Fielding, Laurence Sterne, and Tobias Smollett. Each of these writers was especially distinct and unique. Having a tremendous reputation during his time, Richardson had a "great deal of influence on the development of fiction" (Priestly) by writing a book of letters. "A very different type of man," (Priestly) Fielding detested all of Richardson's works, writing instead about the ills of society. Sterne's reputation…
