essay on literature and society

Essay on the connection between literature and society

Literature means something that is written for refreshing and inspiring the mind. It records the thoughts and feelings of great minds. It attracts in two ways—through its matter and through its manner. The matter must be such that those who read it are interested in some way. The manner must be such as will be pleasing to the reader and adds to his fund of knowledge.

We live in a society. That is, there are relations and interrelation between men who live in the society. We like to hear about our fellow men who live in society, their thoughts and feelings, their likes and dislikes.

Naturally, if we have the power of language to express the feelings, we are well on the way to creating literature. In other words, the subject matter of literature is society in some form or other. The poet expresses his feeling and we who read his poetry are interested and feel at one with him and ourselves. After all, society is this bond of fellowship between man and man through communication that the poet or writer seeks.

If literature expresses social sympathies, naturally it is bound to exercise some positive influence on our mind and attitude. Society reacts to literature in a living way. An inspiring poem creates general influence on society. It rouses our feelings and enthusiasm for welfare.

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Shelley has called poets the unacknowledged legislators of mankind. The function of a legislator is to lay down the law, a settled course of action that men may follow. Poetry and literature generally do this in a quiet and unobtrusive way. Novels are known to have changed the direction of the human mind and set in motion movements that have altered our ways of life.

The influence of literature on society is felt directly or indirectly. Thus Miss Stowe’s “Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ was directly responsible for a movement against slavery in literature and life in USA of those days. The novels of Dickens had an indirect influence in creating in society a feeling for regulating and removing social wrongs, calling for necessary reforms.

Sarat Chandra’s novels have gone a long way in breaking conservatism as regards women in our society. It is, however, clear that if we are interested in literature, and its influence is bound to move us amply. Literature is made out of the lore of life. No doubt, the realistic artist brings to a focus the oddities and cruder aspects of life overmuch. But to know life fully, not only the bright side but also the seamy and dark side of life is to be known.

Thus, society creates literature. It may be described as the mirror of the society. But the quality and nature of the reflection depends upon the writer’s attitude of mind, whether he is progressive in his outlook or reactionary.

Naturally, conservative-minded writer will stress those aspects of social life, which put the traditional ways of life in the best possible way. For example, he will set a high value on reverence for age-old ideals, respect for religion, chastity of woman and so on. On the other hand, a progressive writer will tend to show how old ideals act as restraints on the natural freedom of the human mind, cripple the free movement of man and women in an unrestricted atmosphere, set for liberating new ideals and moving society that looks forward to newer ways of life.

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The Incredible Impact of Literature on Society

Disha Dahiya

Stories and literature wield an unparalleled influence on society, shaping our perceptions, values, and understanding of the world. From ancient myths passed down through oral traditions to contemporary novels that reflect our modern complexities, the power of storytelling transcends time and culture. This critical literary introduction seeks to explore the multifaceted impact of literature on society, digging into its ability to provoke introspection, challenge societal norms, and foster empathy.

At the heart of this discussion lies the fundamental role of stories as a medium for human connection. Through narratives, individuals find a common ground to share their experiences, fears, and aspirations, forging a collective understanding of the human condition. Literature, as the written form of storytelling, amplifies this connection by immortalizing narratives that resonate across generations. Moreover, stories and literature serve as mirrors that reflect and refract societal values and beliefs. They not only capture the zeitgeist of their time but also have the power to shape it. By presenting alternative perspectives and challenging established norms, literature becomes a catalyst for societal change, prompting readers to question the status quo and envision new possibilities.

Furthermore, stories have a profound impact on the moral and ethical fabric of society. Through compelling characters and intricate plots, literature explores the complexities of human nature, posing timeless questions about morality and the human condition. This exploration often leads to a deeper understanding of oneself and others, fostering empathy and compassion within society . We can also say that stories and literature are not merely forms of entertainment or escapism; they are powerful tools that shape our understanding of the world and our place in it. Through their ability to provoke thought, challenge norms, and foster empathy, stories and literature continue to be indispensable elements of the human experience.

The influence of stories and literature on society has been a subject of contemplation for philosophers and thinkers throughout history. According to Plato, “Books give a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.” Here Plato emphasizes the transformative power of literature in enriching human experience and expanding the boundaries of thought. Aristotle believed that literature, particularly tragedy, had a profound effect on the audience by evoking emotions such as pity and fear. He saw storytelling as a means to achieve catharsis, a purification of these emotions, which he considered essential for the well-being of individuals and society. Thomas Hobbes, in his political philosophy, highlighted the importance of storytelling in the formation of societal structures. He argued that stories and myths played a crucial role in creating a shared understanding of authority and governance, which are essential for maintaining social order. Modern literary criticism, influenced by various literary theories, emphasizes the role of literature in shaping cultural narratives and challenging established norms. Literary critics analyze how storytelling techniques and narrative structures influence the way we perceive the world and ourselves. Many writers and authors have expressed the transformative power of literature through their works. For example, Maya Angelou said, “Any book that helps a child to form a habit of reading, to make reading one of his deep and continuing needs, is good for him”. These ideas illustrate the profound impact of stories and literature on society, from shaping individual minds to influencing cultural and political structures.

Literature as a Means of Fostering Human Connection

Literature, with its ability to transcend time and space, serves as a powerful medium for fostering human connection. Through the art of storytelling, literature brings people together, creating a shared space where diverse perspectives, emotions, and experiences converge.    Stories are a fundamental way in which humans connect with each other. They provide a medium for sharing experiences, emotions, and ideas across time and space. Plato noted that “Those who tell the stories rule society” highlighting the influential role of storytellers in shaping societal narratives and norms.

At the heart of this discussion lies the concept of empathy, which plays a pivotal role in fostering human connection through literature. As philosopher Martha Nussbaum argues, literature has the unique ability to cultivate empathy by allowing readers to step into the shoes of characters from different backgrounds and cultures. By immersing themselves in the lives of fictional or historical figures, readers develop a deeper understanding of the complexities of human existence, leading to greater compassion and connection with others.

Furthermore, literature serves as a bridge that transcends barriers of time, space, and culture, uniting individuals across generations and geographical boundaries. The works of classic writers like Shakespeare or contemporary authors like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie provide readers with a window into the human experience, highlighting universal themes of love, loss, and resilience that resonate across diverse contexts. Through literature, individuals can find common ground, share their stories, and recognize the shared humanity that binds them together. Literature’s capacity to evoke empathy and transcend cultural divides makes it a potent force in fostering human connection. By engaging with literary works that challenge their perspectives and broaden their horizons, individuals can forge meaningful connections with others, enriching their lives and deepening their understanding of the world.

Literature as a Medium of Shaping Cultural Identity and Preserving Collective Memory

Literature has long been recognized as a powerful medium for shaping cultural identity and preserving collective memory. Through storytelling, writers capture the essence of a society’s values, beliefs, and traditions, thereby contributing to the formation of its cultural identity. This critical literary introduction aims to explore how literature serves as a mirror that reflects the cultural ethos of a society, drawing insights from the perspectives of philosophers, theorists, and writers.

Philosopher Martha Nussbaum highlights the role of literature in shaping cultural identity by emphasizing its ability to cultivate empathy. According to Nussbaum, literature allows readers to understand and empathize with the experiences of others, thereby fostering a sense of shared humanity and cultural belonging. Similarly, literary theorist Mikhail Bakhtin’s concept of the “ chronotope ” underscores the interconnectedness of literature and culture, suggesting that literary works are deeply rooted in their cultural context and contribute to the construction of cultural identity. Moreover, writers themselves have often reflected on the role of literature in preserving collective memory. Nobel laureate Toni Morrison once remarked that literature enables societies to remember and confront their past, thereby contributing to the preservation of collective memory. By portraying historical events and cultural traditions, literature serves as a repository of a society’s collective memory, ensuring that important aspects of its history are not forgotten but rather celebrated and learned from.

Hence, literature plays a crucial role in shaping cultural identity and preserving collective memory by reflecting the values and experiences of a society. Through the insights of philosophers, theorists, and writers, we can appreciate the profound impact of literature on the formation and preservation of cultural identity and collective memory.

Literature as a Promoter of Empathy, Understanding, and Moral Reflection

Literature has long been celebrated as a powerful tool for promoting empathy and understanding among individuals. Through the art of storytelling, literature allows readers to immerse themselves in the lives and experiences of others, fostering a sense of empathy by enabling them to see the world from different perspectives. This critical literary introduction aims to explore how literature serves as a catalyst for empathy and understanding, drawing insights from the perspectives of philosophers, theorists, and writers.

Literary theorist Wayne C. Booth argues that literature provides a safe space for readers to explore complex ethical and moral dilemmas through the experiences of fictional characters, allowing them to reflect on their own values and beliefs. Moreover, writers themselves have often reflected on the role of literature in promoting empathy and moral reflection. Nobel laureate Toni Morrison once remarked that literature enables individuals to confront difficult truths about themselves and society, fostering a deeper understanding of human nature and the complexities of the human condition. By engaging with literary works that challenge their perspectives and ethical frameworks, readers are encouraged to reflect on their own moral compass and empathetic capacities, ultimately contributing to a more compassionate and understanding society. Literature’s ability to evoke empathy, stimulate understanding, and provoke moral reflection makes it a potent force for positive social change. Through the insights of philosophers, theorists, and writers, we can appreciate the profound impact of literature on promoting empathy and moral understanding, thus enriching the human experience.

The influence of stories and literature on society is profound and multifaceted. Throughout history, literature has played a pivotal role in shaping societal narratives, influencing cultural identities, and fostering human connections. By digging into the human experience and exploring universal themes, literature transcends time and culture, leaving an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of humanity. Through storytelling, writers capture the essence of their societies, preserving collective memory and shaping cultural identities. Moreover, literature acts as a catalyst for societal change, challenging established norms and prompting introspection. Furthermore, literature’s impact extends beyond societal structures, influencing individual minds and hearts.

As we navigate the complexities of the modern age, literature remains an indispensable companion, guiding us through the human experience and illuminating the path forward. Through its ability to provoke thought, challenge norms, and foster empathy, literature stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. As we continue to write and read, we carry forward the legacy of literature, ensuring that its influence on society remains as potent as ever. Hence, the impact of literature on society is profound and far-reaching, shaping our perceptions, values, and understanding of the world. From fostering human connections to challenging societal norms, literature continues to wield its influence across time and culture, enriching the human experience and shaping the course of history.

The views and opinions expressed by the author/s in this article are their personal opinions and do not represent the views of  PureSociology . You can contact the author/s at  [email protected] . The details of the authors are:

Ms. Disha Dahiya is an Assistant Professor, Department of English, Guru Kashi University, Bathinda

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Literature and Society: F R Leavis Summary and Analysis

Literature and Society is an essay by F.R.Leavis. During the Matrixing decade, Leavis was once invited to ‘Union of the London School of Economics and Politics’ where he addressed students on discourse on Literature and Society. He shared his view on how literature and society are interdependent. Leavis showed great interest towards literature, tradition, education and society. He was inspired by writers and poet like T.S.Eliot, D.H.Lawrence William Blake, Bunyan and others. As a result he has contributed many books like The Great Tradition, The Common Pursuit, New Bearings In English, Dickens The Novelist, Education and University etc.

Before looking into his essay, Literature and Society , we should recall his two prominent quotes:

• ” Literature is the supreme means by which you renew your sensuous and emotional life and learn a new awareness”
• ” Literature is the store house of the recorded values”. The above quotes assure us the significance of literature in one’s life and it’s need. Leavis always believed that literature should be closely related to criticism of life. In the essay he informs readers about the ‘duty of writer to identify himself with working class, the duty of the critic to evaluate works of literature in terms of the degree in which they seemed calculated to further (or otherwise) for proper and pre- destined outcome of the class struggle, and the duty of the literary historian to explain literary history as the reflection of changing economic and material realities’.

Here he connects every profession of the society to literature and their combination developing into a contribution back to society. Thus, it means literature is connected to society through various fields.

F.R Leavis conception of literature

D.H.Lawrence

Initially, Leavis focuses on working class and the literature that conjugates their life. Taking up the instance of D.H Lawrence , he opines that Lawrence had failed to reach bourgeois as he misrepresented reality. He ‘shared the life of a social class which has passed it’s prime’.

Marxist’s theory

‘Marxist’s approach to literature seems to me unprofitable’ he says and he admits literature as a matter of isolated works of art and thinks that individuals with specific creative gifts produce such works. Marxist theory emphasizes on economic and material determinants of society.

T.S Eliot’s theory of Tradition

The failure of Critical work of T.S.Eliot to have stock taken was ‘conscious rejection of the Romantic critical tradition’ ‘and directed against Romantic tradition’ Romantic period laid it’s die stress inspiration and the individual genius. In order to understand the achievement of art, individual talent and original impulses must be taken into account. Eliot’s idea represents a new emphasis on the social nature of artistic achievement. Instead of the word ‘social’ he uses ‘impersonal’. Eliot writes , ‘ He must be aware that the mind of Europe the mind of his own country a mind which he learns in time to be much more important than his own private mind is a mind which changes…’ A masterpiece is produced when a gifted individual borns, he sets his inspiration and that leads to it’s creation. A individual writer must be aware of his work of the literature to which it belongs. Literature has an organic form and an organic order. This approach to literature stresses on intectual and spiritual than Marxist theory. The study of literature is an intimate study of complexities, potentialities and essentials of condition of human nature. The difference between Marxist and Tradition theory is that Tradition stresses on social aspect of creative achievement and yet allows individual aspect. ‘Without individual talent there is no creation’. Leavis opines that ‘ only in individuals that society lives’. He concentrates on the point that ‘ you can’t contemplate the nature of literature without acquiring some inhibition in respect of that antithesis’. The justification he gives to his statement by referring to the diversity among Romantic writers. They themselves do not exemplify any common Romanticism. The common feature that unites them is their age and the negative: the absence of anything to replace a very positive tradition.

Augustan age

Augustan age laid greater stress on social. Their convention, standards and idiom of maturity has been proved in Tattler and Spectator . According to Leavis, an age in which tradition itself gets established is clearly an age in which writer feels one at society. Augustan Heyday and Queen Anne period were the period of confident and flourishing cultural health.

William Blake

William Blake has applied his full consciousness which is genius and manifested technical achievement, the new use of words. Blake says ‘ It is I who see And fed. I see only what I see and feel what I feel. My experience is mine, and in its specific quality lies it’s significance’. Leavis opines Blake uses English language and not his invention. The mind and sensibility that he uses to express are of the language. It is sad that Blake did not receive a nurturing environment for his genius art. Blake serves to bring out the significance of Wordsworth’s kind of interest in rustic life.

Idea of Popular and Sophisticated Culture

The best example for true real culture is Dryden’s contemporary, Bunyan. The masterpiece work of Bunyan, ‘The Pilgrims Progress’. He belonged to the civilization of his time, a Mechanick participating in a rich traditional culture. An extract from By- End is discussed to uphold Bunyan’s popular culture. Behind literature, there is a social culture and an art of living. Instance from Cecil Sharp’s Introduction to English Folk-Songs from the Southern Appalachians show that a civilization or the ‘way of life’s that was truly an art of social living. The mountaineers were descended from settlers who had left the country in the eighteenth century. Their speech is English, not American! They are leisurely, cheery people in their quiet way, in whom social instinct is very highly developed, they know their Bible intimately, are austere creed but majority were illiterate. The illiterate may nevertheless reach a high level of culture will surprise only those who imagine that education and cultivation are convertible terms.

From Shakespeare till Marvel we can feel the refined Sophisticated, European, and courtly urban culture in literature. Leavis puts up a comparison between Dryden and Halifax, where Halifax is easy, urbane, natural and master of spoken tone and movement. He holds the true spirits of Restoration yet seems similar to Bunyan in his raciness and idiomatic life. Dryden gets lively and presents polite idiomatic ease of that new organ of metropolitan culture which is not similar to Banyan’s.In Augustan verse, the verse of polite are seen in Pope and Addison’s work.

The Modern literature shifted from the rustic life to mechanical after the death of Wordsworth. The one who concludes that contemporary would include the Marxking or Wellsian kind of relation to social, political and economic problems, but for literary tradition, history would have been lost and existence of popular culture would be questionable. Leavis, advising to the students of politics and society that ‘ literature will yield to the sociologist, or anyone else, what it has to give, only if it is approached as literature’ . It is important to focus more on responding appropriately and appreciatively an artist’s use of language and his complexities of organization rather than explicit valuation. A critic’s experience and understanding plays an essential role. The hints from the Gilbert Murray’s Rise of fa Greek Epic , Dame Bertha Phillpott’s WA and Saga are referred. To conclude, Leavis says that ‘without the sensitizing familiarity with the subtleties of language, and the insight into the relations between abstract or generalising thought and the concrete of human experience, that the trained frequentation of literature alone can bring, the thinking that attends social and political studies will not have the edge and force it should’ . Thus, Leavis makes an attempt to exhibit various approaches of literature that governed in different period and ages. We also find the major classes of literature. At the end, readers recognise the importance of literature to life and it’s influence on society.

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The Relationship between Literature and Society

That literature is a reflection of the society is a fact that has been widely acknowledged. Literature indeed reflects the society, its good values and its ills. In its corrective function, literature mirrors the ills of the society with a view to making the society realize its mistakes and make amends. It also projects the virtues or good values in the society for people to emulate. Literature, as an imitation of human action, often presents a picture of what people think, say and do in the society. In literature, we find stories designed to portray human life and action through some characters who, by their words, action and reaction, convey certain messages for the purpose of education, information and entertainment. It is impossible to find a work of literature that excludes the attitudes, morale and values of the society, since no writer has been brought up completely unexposed to the world around him. What writers of literature do is to transport the real-life events in their ...

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The Impact of Literature on Society:

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In the vast tapestry of human existence, literature stands as a profound mirror reflecting and shaping the complexities of our collective journey. Azareen Van Der Vliet Oloomi's introspective exploration in "Whose time are we speaking in?" unveils the intimate connection between literature and personal experience, unraveling the intricate interplay of time, language, and the profound influence of storytelling. From the nuances of individual reflections to the broader societal fabric, literature weaves a narrative that transcends temporal and cultural boundaries. As we embark on this intellectual journey, guided by the insightful perspectives of Jung and Augsburger, Simarmata, and the contemplative questioning posed by the article on literature's impact on history, we delve into the multifaceted nature of literature's transformative power. The scholarly contributions of Buell, Heise, and Thornber, as well as Koopman and Hakemulder, further enrich our exploration, bringing forth the nuanced dimensions of literature's impact on empathy, character formation, and its role in environmental and historical discourse. This research paper seeks to unravel the intricate relationship between the written word and the evolving dynamics of society, examining how literature shapes societal norms, influences collective consciousness, and acts as a bridge between diverse perspectives. In essence, the transformative tapestry of literature beckons us to traverse through time, language, and human experience, offering profound insights into its profound impact on the evolving narratives of our shared existence.

International Res Jour Managt Socio Human

Literature is mirror of society.. Literature, as part of a larger cultural body, is both instructive and entertaining, and has the power to facilitate personal understanding and encourage social cohesion. Literature has had a major impact on the development of society. It has shaped civilisations, changed political systems and exposed injustice. Literature gives us a detailed preview of human experiences, allowing us to connect on basic levels of desire and emotion. However, just as it has constructed societies, the writings and works of certain authors have degraded societies to their most primitive form.

Manoj K Maurya

Literature is the foundation of humanity's cultures, beliefs, and traditions. It serves as a reflection of reality, a product of art, and a window to an ideology. Everything that happens within a society can be written, recorded in, and learned from a piece of literature. Whether it be poetry or prose, literature provides insight, knowledge or wisdom, and emotion towards the person who partakes it entirely. Life is manifested in the form of literature. Without literature, life ceases to exist. It is an embodiment of words based on human tragedies, desires, and feelings. It cultivates wonders, inspires a generation, and feeds information. Even though it is dynamic, endless, and multi-dimensional, literature contributes significant purposes to the world we live in. Literature and society are closely related to each other since literature is the mirror of society. Sometimes literature and society inspire and even influence to each other. It is impossible to find a work of literature that excludes the attitudes, morale and values of the society, since no writer has been brought up completely unexposed to the world around him. What writers of literature do is to transport the real-life events in their society into fiction and present it to the society as a mirror with which people can look at themselves and make amends where necessary. Thus, literature is not only a reflection of the society but also serves as a corrective mirror in which members of the society can look at themselves and find the need for positive change. It is necessary to take a close look at some works of literature, in order to understand how literature actually reflects the society. In a literal sense, the word literature means ‗things made from letters'. Literature is the source of human knowledge and the documentation of human experience. Literature helps to understand the world around us and preserves the morals of people. Literature is understood in a multiplicity of ways. It is a body of written or oral works, such as novels, poetry or drama that use words to stimulate the imagination and confront the reader with a unique version of life. The underlying assumption here is that a work of literature is a creative, universal form of expression that addresses the emotional, spiritual, or intellectual concerns of humanity. Good literature is said to demonstrate craft and artistry and has the power to raise questions, provide fresh points of view, and expand the understanding of self and the world, stimulate and imagination and renew the spirit. To us literature is any creative, factual, and imaginative work about people and what they have done, believe and have created or are willing to create. Literature is multiple of: written in books,

isara solutions

Literature and society have a close relationship in life. Literature includes our ancient scriptures, classics, holy/ religious books which have the power to persist beyond time. Literature means something that is written for refreshing and inspiring the mind. It records the thoughts and feelings of great minds. In some civilizations, there was oral tradition to impart and transfer the knowledge of history, literature and culture. It attracts in two ways –through its matter and through its manner. We live in a society. There are relations and interrelations between men who live in society.

Akinmulegun Emmanuel

The trust of this paper is to examine the subject of concern which is moral decadence amongst school students considering the instrument of Literature in English to amend such decadence; thus looking vividly into the roles of literature in bringing about a better mind. This could be achieved through the provision of various experiences of other cultures, provision of insight into the nature and potentials of man, enhancement of constructive thought on important issues and ideas, development of competency in the use of language and the spirit of creativity. Fifteen item questions was design for the purpose, in addition to reading from some Literature in English books reviewed. The field report from the items revealed that Literature can improve the morals of students as it reflects the thinking patter and prevalence of occurrence in the society. Misconduct and decadence found in the school system amidst students and the society which ranges from; violence, deceit, selfishness, financial embezzlement, all-cultic society, robbery and so on can be ameliorated if the method in which teachers teach literature depicts the morality as found in literary works. Empirical studies reviewed in the paper revealed how Literature in English can be used to minimize, curb and abrogate the miscreants in the school system through the morality it portrays. In view of this, suggestions on how to make literature perform its enviable roles in making a better man are recommended.

Gabriel Bazimaziki

This essay is concerned with genres of Literature and their relevance to society. The author carries out a mini review of various literary works showing how many authors or critics have stake in human life at socio-cultural, economic and political levels. The author uses mainly interpretive literary analysis with particular emphasis on some literary generic elements viz characters and themes affecting them in each genre. Going through a section of authors from both African and Western cultures, the author brings the reader to understand how Literature and society are intertwined as they need each other.

ifedayo oshin

International Journal of Linguistics and Computational Applications

All of us know the importance and value of good literature in our lives. Right from the stories told by our grandmothers to the great education we receive later in life, literature plays a significant part all throughout. It influences us and makes us understand the ways of life. Narratives, in particular, inspire empathy and lend a whole new perspectives to us and that of others too. This also works with the morals induced within useither directly or by implied means. When one reads literature, one gains insight, knowledge and wisdom, refining our emotions in the process too. In fact, literature is life manifested in myriad forms. Snippets of life are recorded in a script or audio or videowhatever the manner of preserving. We read, hear or see it accordingly to connect with the slice of humanity in it and this in turn, again strengthens our mind, providing immeasurable growth, leading to abilities of thinking beyond the traditional gamut, what one could term as "outside the box". In this manner, literature is a reflection of reality, becoming a product of art when distanced and seen objectively and a window to an ideology. This paper seeks to throw light on the importance of literature and how it imparts human values, thus making it very necessary to be incorporated in each and every syllabus of almost every major stream, whether humanities, social sciences , engineering, management or sciences. The study involves a mixed-methods research design involving student and teacher interviews, avid recipients, questionnaires and lesson observations. The results were quite heartening, suggesting a positive response. The paper concludes by discussing the potential and outreach of literature to every study as well as the minds of its avid recipients, of any age-group, class or creed.

Dhawalagiri Multiple campus

This article analyses mainly the relation between literature and society from social point of view in literary works and arts. It's main aim is to explore social manifesto underscore the correlation of literature , society, life, and lives. It analyses and interprets the different poet's feeling thought, meaning ,sense and applications of literary concept in different poetic work and art. This Article is prepared by reviewing the period and time of English literature related to these issues.

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Essay on Literature As The Mirror Of Society

Students are often asked to write an essay on Literature As The Mirror Of Society in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Literature As The Mirror Of Society

Introduction.

Literature is a significant part of our lives. It’s like a mirror that reflects society. It shows us the life, culture, and beliefs of people from different times and places. Just like a mirror shows our image, literature shows us the image of society.

Literature and Society

Literature and society are closely connected. Writers use their works to express their thoughts about the world around them. They write about what they see, feel, and experience in society. This is why we can learn a lot about society from literature.

Reflection of Culture

Literature reflects the culture of a society. It tells us about the customs, traditions, and values of people. By reading literature, we can understand how people lived in the past and how they live now.

Understanding Human Nature

Literature helps us understand human nature. It shows us the emotions, desires, and struggles of people. By reading about these, we can better understand ourselves and others.

In conclusion, literature is a mirror of society. It reflects the life, culture, and human nature of different times and places. By reading literature, we can learn a lot about society and ourselves.

250 Words Essay on Literature As The Mirror Of Society

Literature often acts like a mirror, reflecting the society we live in. It is a powerful tool that shows us the world and its people in a unique light.

What is Literature?

Literature is a collection of written works like poems, novels, plays, and essays. These works are more than just words. They are creative expressions that capture the emotions, thoughts, and experiences of the people who write them.

How Does Literature Reflect Society?

Literature can give us a clear picture of society. Writers often use their works to show what’s happening around them. They write about real people, events, and issues. This gives us a chance to see and understand different aspects of society.

Examples of Literature Reflecting Society

For example, the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee reflects racism in American society. The play “A Doll’s House” by Henrik Ibsen, shows us the status of women in the 19th century. These works help us understand the social issues of their time.

Why is it Important?

Literature as a mirror of society is important because it helps us learn about different cultures, histories, and experiences. It can open our minds and make us think about things in new ways. By reading literature, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world around us.

In conclusion, literature is a powerful mirror that reflects society. It helps us see the world from different perspectives and understand it better. So, let’s keep reading and learning from the mirror of society – literature.

500 Words Essay on Literature As The Mirror Of Society

Literature is a vital part of human life. It is like a mirror that reflects society. It shows us the past, the present, and even the future. It helps us understand how people live, think, and feel. This essay will explore how literature acts as a mirror of society.

Literature is a form of art that uses words to express ideas and feelings. It includes books, poems, plays, and other writings. These works are often about people, their lives, and their societies. They show us what is happening in the world around us. For example, a story about a poor farmer may show us the problems of poverty and inequality.

Reflecting Social Issues

Literature can also bring attention to social issues. Many writers use their works to highlight problems in society. They write about things like racism, sexism, and corruption. These stories can make us think about these issues and encourage us to find solutions. For instance, the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee shows us the problem of racial injustice.

Showing Cultural Values

Literature also reflects the values and beliefs of a society. It shows us what people think is important. This can be seen in the way characters act and the choices they make. For example, in a society that values bravery, the heroes of stories are often brave and courageous.

Changing with Society

As society changes, so does literature. New stories are written that reflect new ideas and experiences. This can be seen in the way literature has changed over time. In the past, most stories were about kings and queens. Now, many stories are about ordinary people and their lives. This shows how society has become more democratic.

In conclusion, literature is a mirror of society. It reflects the world around us, showing us both its beauty and its flaws. It helps us understand other people and cultures. It makes us think about social issues and encourages us to find solutions. By reading literature, we can learn about society and our place in it. So, let’s read more and understand our world better.

This essay is a short journey through the wide world of literature and its connection with society. It only scratches the surface of this deep topic. There is so much more to explore and learn. But hopefully, it has given you a good start. So, keep reading, keep learning, and keep exploring. The world of literature is waiting for you.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

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The Impacts of Literature on Society

Delve into the multifaceted ways in which literature continues to shape and transform our society.

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Understanding the concept of literature, importance of literature, factors that influence the impacts of literature on society, shaping of the global popular culture, providing information, elimination of cultural barriers.

Recently, few fields have had as significant an impact on our world as literature. Many see it as the basis for all the arts, affecting every part of society. Its elements are found in music, films, fashion, religion, education, science, and even the gambling industry. In some ways, literary texts influence players on how to choose online slots AUS as well as other games and platforms in other climes. In short, literature is at the centre of the global popular culture.

The term “literature” originated from Latin, where it meant “the use of letters” or “writing.” Over time, as Latin evolved into the Romance languages (French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and Romanian), literature came to be understood as “knowledge acquired through reading or studying books.”

This definition raises concerns about what books qualify for reading or studying. This is where issues of canonicity come in. Something becomes canonical if cultural institutions like universities, schools and prize communities accept it. That raises another debate: what standards are these institutions using to access books worthy of study?

In a broad sense, any collection of work written by scholars or domain experts in any language about a period or culture is defined as literature. This includes but is not limited to prose, poetry, essays, dramas, fiction, literary works based on art, history, philosophy, religion and culture, legal and scientific writing.

Literature serves as a mirror of society, reflecting good and bad values of humanity and educating people on why those are good or bad. In mirroring society, literature educates about what happened in the past, informs behaviour in the present and predicts patterns for the future.

As literature aims to educate, it is crucial to provide a comprehensive understanding of its historical and societal influence, taking into consideration the following factors that shape its impact on our world:

• The Society . Since society is made up of people, every one of its subsets has preconceived notions of what an idea, a concept, or a phenomenon should be.
• The Text Under Consideration . The presentation style, the language used, and the cultural context or historical period in which a text is situated all significantly shape the extent of its impact.
• The Reader Interacting with the Text . The reader has biases, opinions, unique experiences, exposure, and education that influence how they interpret and understand a text.

The Overall Effect of Literature on Society

As stated, literature has influenced our world significantly on many levels and in many areas. In the following paragraphs, you will discover some of these areas of massive impact.

Exposure to literature is the earliest way society teaches children and adults analytical skills by reading text to pick reoccurring themes, ideas and underlying concepts. People learn to see the world from different perspectives while engaging with literature, thereby learning about empathy.

This helps the people in the society understand one another as they see different facets and perspectives to existing problems. People express themselves through literature by writing their opinions on matters arising from their interactions with society.

Some literary texts are so relevant today that they have become a part of widespread or mass culture. For example, the works of William Shakespeare and Homer have become a part of popular culture.

Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is now synonymous with a love story with an impending tragic end, much like a Sakura stand in full bloom awaiting its inevitable fall.  Homer’s Odyssey is now used to define adventurous projects that will take extended periods to complete. More recently, following the popular television adaptation of George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Fire and Ice, Games of Thrones, girls born around the world at the time of the production were named after several characters from the book, such as Khaleesi, Arya, and more.

Books have become sensations, ideas from literature have become a part of popular culture, and literary characters have become “real-life” celebrities.

The significant impact of literature on society lies in its ability to facilitate research aimed at identifying patterns, mapping thought processes, and elucidating prevailing social norms. Researchers and thought leaders conduct extensive investigations and meticulously document their findings, contributing to society’s understanding of various intricate phenomena, advancing scientific and technological progress, and demystifying complex processes and procedures.

As a result, modern research builds upon the foundation of previous literature. It follows the established guidelines and continually enhances existing methodologies, thereby learning from past mistakes. A prime illustration of this process is the field of genetics, where biologist and meteorologist Gregor Mendel, regarded as the father of modern genetics, introduced the principles of inheritance. Subsequently, after the discovery of Mendel’s work in 1905, scientists like William Bateson expanded and improved upon these principles, further advancing the field of genetics.

Literature has enabled learning about other cultures before interacting with them. This helps to break cultural barriers, remove preconceived notions about people and bring context to conversations. People went to war because they had differing opinions and beliefs on culture. An example is the American Civil War . One of the reasons for the American Civil War was the differing views on slavery.

Literature has eliminated misunderstandings like this because people can read about their differing cultures and understand one another before interacting. Opinions about cultures have context courtesy of literature. Society can now empathise when a certain demographic of people behave how they do because there is literature to back that behaviour.

The impact of literature on society is an ongoing conversation. The degree of influence cannot be measured in a few sentences because there are more subtle ways and even more obvious ways literature has shaped society. Even to the watchful eyes of experts, the sheer breadth of these impacts is overwhelming.

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Essays On Literature And Society

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dc.contributor.author: Edwin Muir dc.date.accessioned: 2015-07-07T18:11:18Z dc.date.available: 2015-07-07T18:11:18Z dc.date.digitalpublicationdate: 0000-00-00 dc.date.citation: 1949 dc.identifier.barcode: 5990010107948 dc.identifier.origpath: /rawdataupload/upload/0107/950 dc.identifier.copyno: 1 dc.identifier.uri: http://www.new.dli.ernet.in/handle/2015/184877 dc.description.scanningcentre: IIIT, Allahabad dc.description.main: 1 dc.description.tagged: 0 dc.description.totalpages: 168 dc.format.mimetype: application/pdf dc.language.iso: English dc.publisher: London The Hogarth Press dc.rights: In Public Domain dc.source.library: University Of Allahabad dc.subject.classification: Literature dc.title: Essays On Literature And Society

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Literature and Society essay

In order to make a valid determination as to whether or not the conclusion of Alan Sillitoe’s “The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Runner” (1960), it is necessary to probe deeply not only into the story’s theme, but into the symbolism of the story, as well. As a matter of fact, in order to reach an valid conclusion regarding the thematic thrust of the story, it is necessary to explicate the story’s symbolism as clearly as possible.

This is because the story, bereft of symbolic connotations, would reveal a very different theme than the story as it presently exists. When regarded from a non-symbolic perspective, the story seems to imply an overt theme of social resonance. This theme could be thought of as the theme of “sociopathology” or the theme of “social oppression” depending upon how any given reader, given the final out come of the story’s plot, weighted their sympathy: either with Smith or with the “esablishment” that Smith so clearly rejects by throwing the final race.

Looking at the story from a non-symbolic viewpoint, the best clue that the reader has for determining whether or not Smith’s stab at “honesty” was successful in the end, is Smith’s own writing — the story itself as a whole — and, in particular this passage which is near the story’s end: I’m out now and the heat’s switched on again, but the rats haven’t got me for the last big thing I pulled.

I counted six hundred and twenty-eight pounds and am still living off it because I did the job all on my own, and after it I had the peace to write all this, and it’ll be money enough to keep me going until I finish my plans for doing an even bigger snatch, something up my sleeve I wouldn’t tell to a living soul. (Sillitoe, 1960, p. 54)

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Two things are immediately evident from this passage: first, that Smith has, indeed, gone back to a life of crime, a life which any alert reader will recognize as being, ultimately, self-defeating and, second, that Smith’s present life, his life post throwing the race, has resulted in an increase in his feelings of alienation and isolation. The give-away clue regarding Smith’s sense of isolation is the phrase ” I wouldn’t tell to a living soul” (Sillitoe, 1960, p.

54) while Smith’s sense of heightened alienation is revealed by the phrase “the rats haven’t got me for the last big thing I pulled” (Sillitoe, 1960, p. 54) and also by the fact that Smith admits that he intends to carry out an even bigger crime in the near future. One has a clear sense that Smith has failed, miserably, in his stand against the society which he believes has wronged and exploited him, and that his present state is not only tragic, but ironic as well, given that his predilection for crime, once rooted in social -classcism, is now rooted in a desire for violence and self-destruction.

Keeping in mind that Smith’s “internal” motivation for throwing the race was to convey a sense of irony to the “rats” and the establishment, his previous observation that “And so this story’s like the race and once again I won’t bring off a winner to suit the governor; no, I’m being honest like he told me to” (Sillitoe 46) reveals that even the conveyance of the story itself is an act of social deviance and violence.

Throwing the race as not enough for Smith — the very story of how he came to throw the race is an additional “kick” at the stablishment which he clearly labels as classicist and dishonest: “something out of Ivanhoe that we’d seen on the pictures a few days before” (Sillitoe, 1960, p. 40). This clearly stated antagonism sets the stage for Smith’s throwing of the race to be an heroic act, as he clearly believes it is.

In his own mind, the throwing of the race is an act of supreme honesty: “Because I’m slowing down now for Gunthorpe to catch me up, and I’m doing it in a place just where the drive turns in to the sportsfield–where they can see what I’m doing, especially the governor and his gang from the grandstand,” (Sillitoe 51). The irony, which is present for any alert reader to capture in this same passage is when Smith admits “I’m sure he’ll never understand because if he and all them like him did it’d mean they’d be on my side which is impossible” (Sillitoe 51).

This admission is not, however emphatic, a statement of objective fact, but a statement of deep subjective conviction on Smith’s behalf. he is firmly entrenched against the establishment and simply views himself in an unending war against it. because victory would be understanding and this is “impossible” — Smith understands that he can’t “win” the race against the establishment; he can merely endure.

This realization is embodied symbolically by Smith’s action of throwing the race. That said, the symbolic aspects of the stroy provide the final resonance of the story’s theme. Since Smith’s act was, itself, intended to be viewed symbolically, the reader can easily conjecture that Smith, as reliable narrator, is to be found in the symbolic resonances of the story and not in the linear development of the plot alone.

This means in that recognizing that his situation is “impossible” Smith is merely providing himself with what be considered a rationalization for continuing his life of crime and for his anti-social feelings and tendencies. However, the underlying symbolic connotation suggests otherwise: if the race as a whole can be considered analogous to Smith’s war against society, and vice-versa, then the outcome of the race is not merely that Smith threw the race to his opponent, but that he chose to throw the race.

This autonomous act is not, however antisocial in inception, technically a criminal or violent act, so it is necessary to conclude that Smith’s ultimate gesture to society is neither criminal nor sociopathic, but based on a rational response to an irrational society. By following the symbolic cues as well as the linear plot-cues of the story, Smith’s eventual outcome can be regarded as affirming of individual liberty and freedom as opposed to being indicative of a state of ironic self-destruction.

Sillitoe, A. (1960). The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Runner (1st ed. ). New York: Knopf.