Description: English tutor, Matt, shares with us his insights as to why students should consider studying Literature and it’s relevance to the modern world.
Benefits of Learning Literature
In a rapidly evolving cultural landscape, from which there is an ever-increasing advocacy of technology and scientific progress, we may find ourselves debating the relevance of studying literature in the modern world.
However, if we delve a little further into the subject, the multifaceted benefits – both academic and social – are easily discerned.
For example, the diversity and range of characters that we may encounter while leafing across the pages of a novel or short story has the almost subliminal effect of instilling within us a deep sense of empathy and understanding.
The ability to live vicariously through the eyes of another contributes significantly to how we advance and mature into well-rounded and tolerant individuals.
Developing a Critical Voice
When we consider literature from an analytical perspective, we are actively engaging in the process of critical thinking.
Students are encouraged to look beyond the face-value interpretations of any given text and are challenged to uncover new ideas and new meanings within a work – with the ultimate aim of developing their own unique and individualised critical voice.
The cultivation of such approaches is not only a necessity throughout academia but also a valuable tool in navigating the social, political, and cultural waters that shape our perception of contemporary life.
Language Development
In terms of language development, reading and studying literature is one of the most effective methods.
It increases not only our active vocabulary but also of introducing elements of form, structure and style, that when combined and manifested through the use of spoken language, can be deployed as a transferable skill across many areas of life.
Effective communication is often crucial to achievement.
So, whether we are trying to win a light-hearted debate among our peers, or attempting to deliver a knockout performance during an interview, the command and implementation of those language skills forged in the vaults of literary study, is often likely to prove advantageous.
Nurture Creativity
Whilst many educational mediums of inquiry can lay claim to nurturing creativity, there can be few that trigger the imagination with such profundity as the study of literature.
In casting a curious eye over the ancient works of Homer for example, we are invited to discover stories and myths that not only helped to shape Greek civilization and religious practices of the time, but that continue to inspire generations of creatives in their various artistic endeavours such as painting, sculpture, song and further written word.
Final Note
Developing a strong sense of moral, ethical and cultural awareness in the present day, can often rely heavily on our ability to engage with, and learn lessons from, the past.
Therefore, in its capacity to illuminate modern themes and values and simultaneously offer great insight into historical contexts, cultural shifts, and societal change, the study of literature could serve as an ever-willing companion.
By tutor Matt.