What Literature Can Teach Us
What Literature Can Teach Us
What Literature Can Teach Us
For many, the word literature suggests a higher art form; merely putting words
on a page doesn't necessarily equate to creating literature. A canon is the
accepted body of works for a given author. Some works of literature are
considered canonical, that is, culturally representative of a
particular genre (poetry, prose, or drama).
Genre fiction typically does not have as much character development as literary
fiction and is read for entertainment, escapism, and plot, whereas literary fiction
explores themes common to the human condition and uses symbolism and other
literary devices to convey the author's viewpoint on his or her chosen themes.
Literary fiction involves getting into the minds of the characters (or at least the
protagonist) and experiencing their relationships with others. The protagonist
typically comes to a realization or changes in some way during the course of a
literary novel.
(The difference in type does not mean that literary writers are better than genre
fiction writers, just that they operate differently.)
Debating Literature
Ultimately, we may discover meaning in literature by looking at what the author
writes or says and how he or she says it. We may interpret and debate an author's
message by examining the words he or she chooses in a given novel or work or
observing which character or voice serves as the connection to the reader.
In academia, this decoding of the text is often carried out through the use
of literary theory using a mythological, sociological, psychological, historical, or
other approaches to better understand the context and depth of a work.
School Skills
Students who study literature and read for pleasure have a higher vocabulary,
better reading comprehension, and better communication skills, such as writing
ability. Communication skills affect people in every area of their lives, from
navigating interpersonal relationships to participating in meetings in the
workplace to drafting intraoffice memos or reports.
When students analyze literature, they learn to identify cause and effect and are
applying critical thinking skills. Without realizing it, they examine the characters
psychologically or sociologically. They identify the characters' motivations for
their actions and see through those actions to any ulterior motives.
Other studies note a correlation between readers and empathy but do not
find causation. Either way, studies back the need for strong English programs in
schools, especially as people spend more and more time looking at screens rather
than books.
Along with empathy for others, readers can feel a greater connection to humanity
and less isolated. Students who read literature can find solace as they realize that
others have gone through the same things that they are experiencing or have
experienced. This can be a catharsis and relief to them if they feel burdened or
alone in their troubles.