Defining Literature and Its Forms

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.