World Literature Introduction PDF

MODULE 1: Introduction to world literature Significance of studying world literature overview of the course and key concepts exposure to diverse perspectives:...

MODULE 1: Introduction to world literature Significance of studying world literature overview of the course and key concepts exposure to diverse perspectives: - understanding different cultural identities values and Definition of world literature: worldviews a collection of literary works from different countries and - Example: Chinua Achebe’s “Things fall apart” - cultures globally understanding colonialism in nigeria [cultural conflicts includes all types of literature including novels short stories & complexities of colonialism] poems dramas essays and oral narratives What makes it unique: represents diverse voice experiences understanding global issues: and perspectives across time periods - literature reflect identity war social justice gender and the environment Purpose of world literature: why is it important? - example: Khaled Hosseini’s “The kite runner” - impact broadening horizons and fostering empathy of war and displacement on families and individuals - helps understand values beliefs and practices from - Marjan atrapi’s novel, “Persepolis” themes of different cultures [helps appreciate diversity of revolution, oppression, and cultural identity in Iran human experience] [helps us understand the human side of global - promotes cross cultural understanding and global issues, deepening awareness and compassion] awareness encourages responsibility Cultural enrichment and personal growth: - fosters a sense of responsibility towards global - enhances empathy critical thinking and appreciation of citizenship [by exposing us to different the human condition perspectives, be open-mindedness, respectful would help us to become empathetic and globally Historical development of World literature aware individuals] key literary periods - Classical, medieval, renaissance, enlightenment, Scope of world literature: romantic, modernist, postmodernist, contemporary classical and contemporary texts: Influence on literature - classical: Homer’s “The Odyssey” (Greece)/(Ancient - shaped by historical social and cultural contexts Greece) Valmiki’s “The Ramayana” (India) - contemporary: Chinua Achebe’s “Things fall apart” Classical literature (ancient period) (Nigeria) Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s “100 years of Overview: solitude” (Colombia) - works from ancient civilizations (Greek roman indian themes covered: chinese mesopotamian) - universal themes: love death justice - Themes: heroism fate love gods - culturally specific themes tied to historical moment - Examples: “The epic of Gilgamesh” Homer’s “The iliad” Vyasa’s “The mahabharata” [reflects the values, beliefs, and worldviews of ancient societies and  have continued to influence literature throughout Romantic literature (late 18th to mid 19th century) history] distinctive traits: - reaction enlightenment’s against reason focus on Medieval literature (5th to 15th century) emotion nature individualism characteristics: - Themes: nature's beauty human emotion imagination - influenced by religion philosophies social order - examples: William Wordsworth (England), Johann - Themes: faith morality chivalry human suffering Wolfgang Goethe (Germany), Mary shelley (England) - Examples: Dante Aligheri’s “Divine comedy” (Italy) [reflects the Christian worldview of the middle Modernist literature (late 19th to mid 20th century) ages] Murasaki Shikibu’s “The tale of Genji” (Japan) characteristics: [often considered the world’s first novel and - response to industrialization war social upheaval provides insight into the court life of Japan’s Heian - Themes: alienation existentialism search for meaning period.] - Examples: james joyce (Ireland), virginia woolf (England) franz kafka (Germany) Renaissance literature (14th to 17th century) key features: Postmodernist literature (mid 20th century to present) - revival of classical antiquity emphasis on human key aspects: potential - challenges modernism explores ambiguity paradox - focus: individualism human nature complexity of fragmented reality experience - diverse voices narrative experimentation - examples: William shakespeare's plays (England) - examples: Jorge luis borges (Argentina), Salman Cervantes’ “Don quixote” (Spain), Poetry of Petrarch rushdie (India/UK) toni morrison (USA) (Italy) Contemporary global literature (21st century) Enlightenment literature (17th to 18th century) Focus: defining characteristics: - addresses global issues migration identity climate - emphasis: on reason science and intellectual change social justice exchange - Themes: reflect complexities of globalization - themes: human rights democracy scientific progress - Examples: Chimamanda ngozi adichie (Nigeria), - examples: voltaire (France) jonathan swift (England) haruki murakami (Japan) margaret atwood (Canada) and alexander pope (England) [used satire, essays, and novels to critique societal norms and promote Conclusion ideas about human rights, democracy, and understanding world literature: scientific progress] - a tool for exploring human experiences challenging - [This period encouraged questioning authority and norms inspiring change exploring ideas about freedom, equality, and - promotes empathy critical thinking and cultural justice] appreciation MODULE 2: Classical Literature from Different Cultures Literary techniques: Key themes and literary techniques in Classical Literature: Epic Poetry: Uses long, narrative poems to tell heroic stories Classical literature: definition and overview (e.g., "The Iliad," "The Ramayana"). Literary works of ancient civilizations including the greeks Allegory and Symbolism: Many classical texts use romance indians chinese and mesopotamians symbolism to convey deeper meanings (e.g., the use of the This text provide inside to introduce societies that produce labyrinth in Greek myths as a symbol of complex human them psychology). universal themes: such as heroism faith morality and the Philosophical Dialogue: Texts like "The Bhagavad Gita" and divine "The Analects" use dialogue to explore moral and philosophical questions. Examples of keyworks: Comparative analysis of classical texts: 1. Greek Literature: "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" by Homer are epic poems that explore themes of heroism, honor, and the Cross-Cultural Comparisons: human condition. They provide insight into Greek values, such Portrayal of Heroes in Different Cultures: as the importance of honor, the role of the gods, and the ○ Classical literature often centers around heroes whose nature of fate. actions embody the values and ideals of their cultures. 2. Roman Literature: "The Aeneid" by Virgil tells the story of By examining the heroes from various texts, we can Aeneas, a Trojan who becomes the legendary ancestor of the see how different societies define heroism and virtue. Romans. It highlights themes of duty, piety, and destiny, ○ Achilles (Greek): In Homer's "The Iliad," Achilles is reflecting the Roman ideals of loyalty to the state and the portrayed as a warrior of unmatched strength and skill, gods. driven by a sense of honor and personal glory. Greek 3. Indian Literature: "The Ramayana" and "The Mahabharata" heroism is often characterized by the pursuit of are epic poems that explore themes such as duty, personal excellence ("arete") and the desire to achieve righteousness, and the complexity of human relationships. The everlasting fame. However, Achilles also embodies the "Bhagavad Gita," a part of the "Mahabharata," presents a tragic flaws of anger and pride, which lead to his dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna on duty and eventual downfall. His story reflects the Greek belief in morality. the inevitability of fate and the transient nature of 4. Chinese Literature: "The Analects" by Confucius is a collection human life. of sayings and ideas attributed to Confucius and his disciples. ○ Aeneas (Roman): In Virgil's "The Aeneid," Aeneas is It focuses on themes of ethics, governance, and personal depicted as a hero who is deeply committed to his duty morality. "The Tao Te Ching" by Laozi emphasizes simplicity, to the gods and his destined role in founding Rome. humility, and harmony with nature. Unlike Achilles, Aeneas embodies the Roman virtues 5. Mesopotamian Literature: "The Epic of Gilgamesh" is one of of "pietas" (duty, piety, and devotion to family, gods, the earliest known literary works, exploring themes of and country). His actions are not driven by personal friendship, mortality, and the search for meaning in life.  desire but by a sense of responsibility to a greater portrayed as a powerful, inescapable force that cause. Aeneas’s heroism is defined by his controls human lives. Characters like Achilles and selflessness, willingness to sacrifice personal Odysseus frequently face situations where they must happiness for the greater good, and adherence to act according to their predetermined destinies, divine will, reflecting Roman values of duty, order, and regardless of their personal desires. The gods, while state loyalty. influential, cannot alter fate itself. For example, despite ○ Rama (Indian): In the Hindu epic "The Ramayana," knowing his fate, Achilles chooses to fight in the Trojan Rama is portrayed as the ideal man and king, War to achieve glory, even though it leads to his death. embodying the virtues of righteousness ("dharma"), This reflects the Greek belief in the inevitability of fate courage, and compassion. Unlike Achilles, whose and the limits of human agency. actions are driven by personal honor, or Aeneas, ○ Indian Literature (Emphasis on Dharma and Moral whose actions are directed by fate, Rama’s heroism is Choice): In contrast, Indian epics like "The Ramayana" rooted in his commitment to dharma, which represents and "The Mahabharata" emphasize the concept of moral duty and social order. Throughout the epic, "dharma" (duty or righteousness) as a guiding principle Rama faces numerous challenges, but he consistently for human actions. While fate plays a role, the chooses the path of righteousness, even when it emphasis is on moral choice and adherence to one's involves personal suffering or sacrifice. This reflects duty. For example, in the "Bhagavad Gita," a part of the Indian cultural emphasis on adherence to duty, "The Mahabharata," Arjuna is faced with a moral moral integrity, and the balance of cosmic order. dilemma about participating in a war against his own ○ Gilgamesh (Mesopotamian): In "The Epic of relatives. Lord Krishna advises him on the importance Gilgamesh," the hero Gilgamesh is initially portrayed as of fulfilling his duty as a warrior without attachment to a powerful yet tyrannical king whose actions are driven the results, highlighting the Indian cultural focus on by personal desires and ego. However, after the death personal responsibility and ethical decision-making of his friend Enkidu, he embarks on a quest for within the framework of fate. immortality, which leads to his eventual realization of ○ Mesopotamian Literature (Quest for Immortality human limitations and acceptance of mortality. and Human Limits): In "The Epic of Gilgamesh," the Gilgamesh's journey reflects the Mesopotamian values role of fate is intertwined with the quest for immortality. of wisdom, humility, and the importance of leaving a Gilgamesh’s journey begins with a desire to defy fate legacy. His story reveals a complex understanding of and achieve eternal life, but he ultimately learns that heroism that includes both physical prowess and moral immortality is reserved for the gods and that human growth. beings must accept their mortality. This reflects a Role of Fate and Free Will in Classical Texts: Mesopotamian understanding of fate as a fixed aspect ○ Different cultures have varying perspectives on the of existence that must be accepted with humility and concepts of fate and free will, which are reflected in wisdom. their literature. ○ Chinese Philosophy (Harmony with the Tao): In ○ Greek Literature (Fate as Inescapable): In Greek Chinese texts like "The Tao Te Ching," the focus is not epics like "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey," fate is often on fate in the Western sense but rather on aligning  oneself with the Tao, or the natural order of the "The Ramayana," Lord Rama is an avatar of the god universe. Laozi emphasizes simplicity, humility, and Vishnu, incarnated to defeat evil and uphold dharma. non-interference, advocating that individuals should This reflects a belief in divine intervention as a force for seek harmony with the Tao by embracing a life of virtue moral righteousness and cosmic balance. and balance. This philosophy suggests a different kind ○ Chinese Philosophy (Abstract Divine Harmony): In of "fate"—one where peace and fulfillment are "The Tao Te Ching," the divine is conceptualized as achieved through non-contention and acceptance of the Tao, an abstract, unnameable force that underlies the flow of life. all reality. Unlike the gods in Greek or Roman texts, the Representation of the Divine and Its Relationship with Tao does not directly intervene in human affairs; rather, Humanity: it represents the natural order with which humans must ○ The divine plays a central role in many classical texts, align themselves. This reflects a belief in a more but the nature of divine intervention and its relationship impersonal, yet pervasive, divine presence that with humanity varies across cultures. emphasizes balance, harmony, and natural order. ○ Greek Literature (Direct Divine Intervention): In Greek epics like "The Iliad," the gods frequently Historical Contexts: intervene directly in human affairs. They take sides in human conflicts, protect or punish individuals, and 1. Greek Epics and the Context of Colonization and Conflict: even manipulate events to achieve their own ends. For ○ Greek epics like "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" were example, in "The Iliad," gods such as Athena, Apollo, written during a period marked by colonization, and Zeus are actively involved in the Trojan War, warfare, and political upheaval. The Greek city-states aiding or hindering mortals based on their own were frequently at war with one another and with interests. This reflects a belief in a pantheon of gods foreign powers. These epics reflect societal values of with human-like qualities who are deeply entwined with honor, heroism, and the pursuit of glory, as well as the the fate of humankind. belief in fate and divine will. Heroes like Achilles and ○ Roman Literature (Divine Will and Duty): In "The Odysseus exemplify the virtues that were celebrated in Aeneid," the gods play a crucial role in directing Greek society—courage, cunning, and the desire for Aeneas’s destiny. Jupiter and other deities guide eternal fame. Aeneas toward his fate of founding Rome, reflecting 2. Indian Epics and the Context of Social Stratification and the Roman belief in the divine sanction of their empire. Religious Change: However, Aeneas's relationship with the gods is ○ "The Ramayana" and "The Mahabharata" were characterized by duty and respect rather than personal composed during a time of significant social interactions. This reflects the Roman emphasis on duty stratification and religious transformation in ancient to both the gods and the state. India. The texts reflect a complex social order based on ○ Indian Literature (Moral Guidance and Divine varna (caste) and ashrama (stages of life), and they Incarnation): In texts like "The Ramayana" and "The provide moral and ethical guidance on how individuals Mahabharata," the divine often appears in human form should live according to their social roles. These epics to provide guidance and restore order. For example, in emphasize the importance of dharma (duty) and  righteousness, which were central to maintaining social In this section, we will explore the enduring influence and relevance of harmony and cosmic balance. The moral dilemmas classical literature on modern thought, literature, philosophy, and faced by characters like Rama and Arjuna highlight the cultural life. We will examine how the themes and ideas presented in tension between personal desires and societal classical texts continue to shape contemporary narratives and obligations. understanding, and we will reflect on how these works challenge or 3. Chinese Texts and the Warring States Period: affirm our own cultural beliefs and values. This comprehensive ○ Confucian and Taoist texts, such as "The Analects" discussion will also highlight specific modern adaptations and and "The Tao Te Ching," were developed during the reinterpretations of these classical texts. Warring States period (475-221 BCE) in China, a time of political fragmentation and philosophical Cultural Impact and Relevance: development. The "Analects" of Confucius emphasize ethics, governance, and social harmony, advocating for 1. Influence on Modern Literature, Philosophy, and Cultural a hierarchical yet benevolent social order. Conversely, Thought: the "Tao Te Ching" promotes the idea of living in ○ Classical literature has served as a foundation for harmony with the Tao, critiquing rigid social structures much of modern Western and Eastern literature, and advocating for simplicity, humility, and naturalness. philosophy, and culture. The themes, characters, and Both texts were responses to the social and political narratives presented in these ancient works are chaos of the time, offering different paths to achieving continually revisited, adapted, and reinterpreted, order and stability. demonstrating their timelessness and universality. ○ For instance, Greek tragedies like Sophocles’ Oedipus By analyzing these texts in their historical and cultural contexts, we Rex have shaped modern dramatic structure, gain a richer understanding of the diverse ways in which different especially in the exploration of human flaws, fate, and societies have grappled with universal human concerns. This moral dilemmas. The concept of a "tragic hero" and the comparative analysis not only deepens our appreciation of these inevitable downfall due to a character flaw are themes literary works but also encourages us to reflect on our own cultural still prevalent in contemporary plays, novels, and films. assumptions and values. ○ In philosophy, the dialogues of Plato have influenced modern philosophical thought on ethics, politics, and Through this exploration, we see how literature serves as a mirror of metaphysics. The Socratic method, introduced in these society, reflecting the hopes, fears, and values of its people. Classical classical texts, remains a central pedagogical literature continues to inspire and challenge us, prompting us to think technique in educational institutions worldwide, critically about the world we live in and our place within it. promoting critical thinking and reasoned debate. ○ Chinese classical literature, like Confucius' Analects, has influenced ethical thought and governance not only in China but also in other parts of East Asia. Confucian Part 3: Synthesis and Cultural Significance of Classical principles of respect, duty, and hierarchical Literature (3 hours) relationships are still evident in contemporary cultural and political practices.  ○ The Ramayana and Mahabharata, two Indian epics, human concerns and resonates with existential have influenced a wide range of artistic expressions, themes found in modern literature and film. from traditional dance and theater to modern cinema. In "The Iliad," Homer explores the futility and These texts offer a rich exploration of duty, destructiveness of war, as well as the complex righteousness, and moral complexity that continues to emotions of anger, pride, and honor. These resonate in various cultural narratives around the themes continue to be relevant in contemporary world. discussions about conflict, peace, and the 2. Relevance of Classical Themes Today: human psyche. Modern works such as "The ○ Justice, Duty, and Leadership: Things They Carried" by Tim O'Brien or "War Concepts of justice, duty, and leadership and Peace" by Leo Tolstoy revisit these presented in classical literature are still central themes, drawing inspiration from classical texts to discussions in political and social life today. to address contemporary contexts. For example, in "The Aeneid," Virgil presents ○ The Divine and Human Relationships: Aeneas as a leader who must prioritize duty Many classical texts explore the relationship over personal desire. This concept of duty — between the divine and the human, often putting the needs of the state or community presenting a complex interplay of fate, free will, above personal interests — resonates with and divine intervention. In Greek literature, contemporary debates about leadership ethics gods frequently intervene in human affairs, as and public service. seen in "The Odyssey," where Athena helps In the "Bhagavad Gita," the dialogue between Odysseus return home. This theme of divine- Arjuna and Krishna revolves around the moral human interaction invites questions about duty (dharma) of a warrior, even when the destiny, choice, and the nature of the divine, outcomes are personally distressing. This which remain relevant in both religious and dilemma reflects contemporary ethical secular contexts today. challenges faced by individuals who must Similarly, the "Tao Te Ching" by Laozi offers balance personal values against professional or insights into how humans should live in societal obligations. harmony with the Tao, or the fundamental ○ Reflections on Mortality, Morality, and the Human nature of the universe. Its teachings on Condition: simplicity, humility, and harmony have Classical literature often confronts fundamental influenced contemporary thought on questions about human existence: What is the sustainability, minimalism, and ecological meaning of life? How do we face mortality? balance. What constitutes a moral life? Texts like "The 3. Modern Adaptations and Reinterpretations: Epic of Gilgamesh" ponder these questions, ○ Many classical texts have been adapted into modern making them highly relevant to modern readers. media, including literature, film, theater, and visual arts. Gilgamesh's quest for immortality and eventual These adaptations help to keep classical literature alive acceptance of his mortality reflects universal  and relevant by presenting it in new contexts that ○ Reflecting on the moral dilemmas presented in the appeal to contemporary audiences. "Bhagavad Gita" or "The Aeneid" can help students ○ For example, Shakespeare’s plays, heavily influenced evaluate their own views on duty, morality, and by Greek and Roman classics, are continuously leadership in personal and professional contexts. adapted into films, novels, and modern plays. The story of "Romeo and Juliet" has been retold in countless formats, including films like "West Side Story" and books like "These Violent Delights" by Chloe Gong. 2. Fostering Cross-Cultural Understanding and Empathy: ○ The Ramayana has inspired numerous films, television ○ Engaging with classical literature from different cultures series, and graphic novels, such as "Sita Sings the encourages empathy by allowing readers to step into Blues," which presents the story through a modern, the shoes of people from different times and places. feminist lens. This engagement fosters a deeper understanding of ○ "The Epic of Gilgamesh" has inspired contemporary human diversity and commonality. works like Stephen Mitchell’s modern translation and ○ By reading these texts, students can appreciate how adaptation, which brings this ancient text into dialogue different societies have dealt with universal human with contemporary existential and psychological concerns, such as love, death, justice, and duty, while questions. also recognizing the unique cultural contexts that ○ The themes from Confucius’ Analects have been shape these narratives. explored in various formats, including business ethics ○ Discussing these works in a classroom setting allows and leadership books, demonstrating their continued students to hear diverse perspectives from their peers, relevance in modern professional and ethical contexts. further enriching their understanding of the texts and the cultures they represent. Reflective Analysis: Through this comprehensive discussion, students will see how 1. Challenging and Affirming Cultural Beliefs: classical literature is not merely a relic of the past but a living body of ○ Classical literature provides a platform for students to work that continues to inspire, challenge, and inform our reflect on their own cultural beliefs and values. For understanding of the world today. They will learn to appreciate the example, reading "The Iliad" might challenge a modern timeless nature of these texts and their relevance to contemporary reader's understanding of honor and conflict, prompting life. them to question contemporary attitudes toward war and heroism. By the end of this module, students will be able to articulate the ○ The Confucian emphasis on hierarchy and respect in cultural significance of classical literature, relate its themes to modern "The Analects" may resonate differently with readers contexts, and engage critically with these enduring works. from different cultural backgrounds, encouraging discussion on how these values translate in today’s society.