20世纪初,在科技发展和社会变化的双重冲击下,宗教处于消亡的危险之中,英国文学研究逐渐兴起。伊格尔顿认为英国文学研究者们试图让英国文学起到代替宗教的作用。这是因为文学和宗教一样可以提供精神支撑,情感慰藉;文学和宗教一样可以提供对抗混乱的神圣的秩序;文学和宗教一样还有助于英国的民族团结。 At the beginning of the 20th century, with the double impact of scientific and technological development and social changes, religion was in danger of disappearing, and the study of British literature began to rise gradually. Eagleton argues that British literary researchers are trying to make British literature a substitute for religion. This is because literature, like religion, can provide spiritual support and emotional comfort. Literature, like religion, can provide a sacred order against chaos. Literature and religion, likewise, contribute to British national unity.