ENGL306 Contemporary Literature Genre Classification

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

What is a characteristic of popular literature mentioned in the text?

Intended to endure for long periods

Reading for pleasure, not contemplation (correct)

High degree of formal beauty

Closely tied to artistic canons

Which of the following best describes the nature of popular literature?

It adheres strictly to literary canons

It loses its significance with time (correct)

It endures over time

It seeks high degrees of formal beauty

In the context of popular literature, what does 'ephemeral' mean?

Permanently relevant

Enduring for long periods

Not influenced by contemporary trends

Losing appeal and significance over time (correct)

What aspect contributes to popular literature's commercial success?

Fast selling nature (D) Signup and view all the answers

How is reading for pleasure different from reading for contemplation in popular literature?

Pleasure-driven without a focus on deeper reflection (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is popular literature generally not considered 'high culture'?

It is closely tied to contemporary concerns (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which type of literature is more likely to win Pulitzer Prizes and National Book Awards?

Literary fiction (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of genre fiction mentioned in the text?

Mainstream and populist appeal (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does John Updike's work blur the line between genre-focused commercial fiction and literary traditions?

By writing pulpy novels that still examine humanity (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which author is highlighted for developing a worldwide following within the fantasy genre?

J.R.R. Tolkien (C) Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes popular literature from literary fiction according to the text?

Ephemerality and commercial success (C) Signup and view all the answers

What genre is noted for having intricate themes despite its popularity?

Fantasy (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does the text suggest about the ratio of sales between Popular Literature and 'Literary' Literature?

Popular Literature comprised almost 90% of the market for fiction. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes Conventions from Inventions in Popular Literature?

Conventions consist of stereotyped characters, ideas, and plots, while Inventions introduce new kinds of characters and innovative plots. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does Popular Literature differ from 'Literary' Literature based on the text?

'Literary' Literature is exclusive and academic, while Popular Literature has a larger readership. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What role do Inventions play in Popular Literature according to the text?

Inventions introduce new concepts and provide an escape from ordinary life. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why did 'Literary' Literature seem like a small and exclusive market compared to Popular Literature in the 20th century?

'Literary' Literature had a readership that was overshadowed by Popular Literature. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How does Popular Literature typically compare to 'Literary' Literature in terms of sales according to the text?

'Literary' Literature sells significantly less than Popular Literature. (B) Signup and view all the answers