Literary history is a branch of literary studies that focuses on the history of literature, encompassing the study of literary movements, periods, genres, authors, and works of literature. It seeks to understand how literature has evolved over time, examining the cultural, social, and historical contexts that have shaped literary production and reception. Scholars in this field analyze literary texts to trace their development and influence, and to uncover patterns and connections between different works and authors. By studying literary history, researchers gain insights into the evolution of literary traditions, the impact of major events and movements on literature, and the ways in which literature reflects and shapes society.