Correct option is D
The writers in chronological order of the periods they belonged to:
1. (D) Francis Bacon (1561-1626): Francis Bacon was an English philosopher, statesman, and essayist who lived during the late Renaissance and early modern period. His works made significant contributions to the development of the scientific method.
2. (C) John Dryden (1631-1700): John Dryden was a prominent English poet and playwright who lived during the Restoration period. He is known for his poetry, plays, and literary criticism, making him a key figure in the literature of his time.
3. (A) Richard Steele (1672-1729): Richard Steele was an English playwright and essayist who lived during the Augustan Age. He co-founded "The Tatler" and "The Spectator," influential periodicals of the early 18th century.
4. (B) Charles Lamb (1775-1834): Charles Lamb, an English essayist and poet, lived during the Romantic period. He is known for his essays, such as "Essays of Elia," which exhibit a distinctive blend of humor and personal reflection.
5. (E) Matthew Arnold (1822-1888): Matthew Arnold was an English poet and cultural critic who lived during the Victorian era. He is recognized for his poetry and critical essays that engage with issues of culture, society, and education.
So, the correct chronological order of the periods they belonged to is (D, C, A, B, E). These writers each played significant roles in their respective literary and intellectual periods, reflecting the changing trends and ideas of their times.