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Questions and Answers
What does literature represent according to the discussion?
What does literature represent according to the discussion?
How many literary compositions are highlighted as influential in shaping humanity?
How many literary compositions are highlighted as influential in shaping humanity?
What role did literature play in society according to the content?
What role did literature play in society according to the content?
What characteristic of the twelve masterpieces is emphasized?
What characteristic of the twelve masterpieces is emphasized?
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What does the phrase 'force capable of shifting the tides of history' imply about literature?
What does the phrase 'force capable of shifting the tides of history' imply about literature?
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Which of the following is a characteristic of literature?
Which of the following is a characteristic of literature?
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What distinguishes fiction from non-fiction?
What distinguishes fiction from non-fiction?
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Which literary composition is known for being foundational for the abolition of slavery?
Which literary composition is known for being foundational for the abolition of slavery?
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Which of the following literary works originates from Arabia?
Which of the following literary works originates from Arabia?
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The Iliad and the Odyssey were written by which author?
The Iliad and the Odyssey were written by which author?
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Which work is considered the longest epic of the world?
Which work is considered the longest epic of the world?
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Which literary work depicts the culture and religion of early Italians?
Which literary work depicts the culture and religion of early Italians?
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What theme is prominent in 'One Thousand and One Night'?
What theme is prominent in 'One Thousand and One Night'?
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What distinguishes prose from poetry?
What distinguishes prose from poetry?
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How has the definition of literature changed over time?
How has the definition of literature changed over time?
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What is a masterpiece typically regarded as?
What is a masterpiece typically regarded as?
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Which of the following best describes the origins of literature?
Which of the following best describes the origins of literature?
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What are some common methods of engaging with literature?
What are some common methods of engaging with literature?
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What role does cultural studies play in understanding literature?
What role does cultural studies play in understanding literature?
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The etymology of the term 'literature' refers to what?
The etymology of the term 'literature' refers to what?
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What is a primary characteristic of poetry?
What is a primary characteristic of poetry?
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Study Notes
Defining Literature
- Literature, in its broadest sense, is any written work.
- The term derives from the Latin word litaritura/litteratura meaning "writing formed with letters."
- Some definitions include spoken or sung texts.
- Definitions of literature have varied over time.
- In Western Europe prior to the eighteenth century, literature referred to all books and writing.
- A more restricted sense of literature, denoting "imaginative" literature, emerged during the Romantic period.
Prose vs Poetry
- Prose is a form of language characterized by ordinary syntax and natural speech. Prose lacks rhythmic structure and is measured in sentences rather than lines.
- Poetry is distinguished by being set in verse (lines) and the syntax is dictated by meaning or poetic metre or visual aspects.
Masterpieces
- A masterpiece refers to a creation that has received critical praise.
- It is considered the greatest work of outstanding creativity, skill, or workmanship.
Key Works of Literature
- The Bible: This is the basis of Christianity, originating in Palestine and Greece.
- The Koran: The Muslim bible, originating from Arabia.
- The Mahabharata: The longest epic in the world, contains the history of religion in India.
- The Iliad and the Odyssey: Source of Greek myths and legends, written by Homer.
- The Song of Roland: Depicts the Golden Age of Christianity in France.
- The Divine Comedy: Written by Dante Alighiere of Italy, depicting the religion and customs of early Italians.
- Canterbury Tales: Depicts the religion and customs of English during early days, written by Geoffrey Chaucer.
- One Thousand and One Nights (Arabian Nights): Shows the ways of government, industries, and society of Arabians and Persians.
- El Cid Campeador: A national hero in Spain who symbolized the unity and strength of Spain.
- Uncle Tom's Cabin, written by Harriet Beecher Stowe depicts the sad fate of slaves. This work formed the basis of democracy.
- The Analects: Written by Confucius of China, became the basis of Christian religion
Additional Notes
- Contemporary debates over the definition of literature suggest a broader, more inclusive approach.
- Cultural studies, for instance, consider both popular and minority genres, along with canonical works.
- Literature often reflects historical periods and aesthetic expectations.
- Literature has a profound impact on society, inspiring revolutions and shaping societies.
- Literature, fundamentally, is a driving force in shaping human thought, influencing and sparking change.
- A quote from Dr. Seuss states, "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go."
- A quote from George R. R. Martin states, "A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies… The man who never reads lives only one."
- A quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson states, "If we encounter a man of rare intellect, we should ask him what books he reads."
- A quote from Sigmund Freud states, "Civilization began the first time an angry person cast a word instead of a rock."
Critical Reading
- Scanning: Quickly finding specific information
- Skimming: Obtaining a general understanding
- Previewing: Gathering an overview to predict the content
- Evaluating: Judging the quality and merit
- Explaining: Summarizing, interpreting and explaining.
- Discussing: Sharing insights and differing views.
- Assessing: Concluding the merits.
- Critical Thinking: Analysing ideas and information, drawing connections.
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Description
This quiz explores the definition of literature, comparing prose and poetry, and understanding what constitutes a masterpiece. Delve into the evolution of literary definitions and discover the distinguishing features of different forms of writing.
