Evaluating a Hypertext Document on Romantic Literature

Introduction to Hypertext and Non-Linear Reading

The influence of technology is everywhere, and this is especially the case with regard to literature and the written word. Hypertext, as a means of displaying text and graphics, has developed alongside the growth of the Internet as a unique way of conveying information and knowledge interactively. The key aspect of hypertext is interaction.

The fact that visual elements and images can also be included adds to the value and meaning of hypertext. Hypertext documents are essentially non-linear, which means that one can easily move around the text from one related section to another. One does not have to follow a sequential or linear method of engaging with material, as would be the case with print media. With the click of a button, one can view extra information or details within a text document, or search for different areas within a site or topic under review.

Technical Performance and Navigation

Hypertext documents need to be well designed so that the viewer or reader does not get lost or confused. Navigation and the way in which the document is constructed are vital parts of evaluating any hypertext site. The site under review works comparatively well in a technical sense: there are no major technical flaws and the site loads rapidly. However, one flaw was a broken link in the Links section (British Women Romantic Poets Project, 1789–1832); this may be due to a file that has recently been moved, which is a common occurrence in hypertext documents given the flexible and rapidly changing nature of the web. An indication of a well-managed site, however, is that web links are regularly checked and either redirected or removed. The fonts used and the display of elements on this site were very readable and well arranged.

An important part of any hypertext document is navigation, and in this regard the site's routing works reasonably well. The navigation is facilitated essentially by means of a sidebar, which is effective in that the links remain accessible throughout the document. The links are self-explanatory and concise within the logical index. Nevertheless, the navigation process could have been made easier and more visually appealing.

Content and Academic Value

The value of hypertext is that it can provide links to a wide range of additional and supplementary information. This document is extended and enhanced by the use of hypertext links within the text, providing access to supplementary and explanatory material. As the intended target audience includes academics and scholars, the hypertext links are appropriate and well placed. The reference to different editions also adds to the academic depth of the document. The content certainly contributes to the literature and does so in a way that is both informative and interesting. As noted, the content is considerably enhanced by links to detailed extra information, though this aspect was not very extensive.

For readers interested in the broader context of Romantic literature, the site offers a focused entry point, particularly in its treatment of female literary figures and the opposition to intellectual oppression that defined the era.

Conclusion and Overall Assessment

Seen in terms of certain limitations of content, this site does provide an important and valuable resource for the study of the Romantic era. The subject matter is academically sound and important, forming part of the integral study of Romantic literature — particularly in its opposition to forms of oppression, especially intellectual oppression. This was a central theme of the Romantic poets and writers as they strove to free themselves from the conservative times in which they lived.

The document should also be praised for its authenticity and for specific features such as the list of female literary figures drawn from the author's own material. However, even in this regard — bearing in mind the potential that hypertext offers — the site could have been considerably enhanced. There could have been more links to other sites and resources on the Romantics, and a greater emphasis placed on the historical and literary context. For example, contemporary literary references to women and female rights could have been included.

On the one hand, there are some excellent aspects to the site, including bibliographic material that was academically impressive. In summation, the site succeeds as a focused and purposeful document. On the other hand, the site fails to explore the full extent of what hypertext media offers. It could also be brought more up-to-date in both a technical and a design sense.