When I was in high school and College, I would study English and World Literature, and I would ponder about the importance of studying literature. If everything was written from and about the past, was there any significance to studying literature at all?
I have researched and asked some avid lovers of literature and found out that reading and studying novels actually provide deep insights and excitement among various readers of different culture and background. By reading fiction, drama, comedy, or poem, it enlightens them and broadens their sense of imagination.
Aside from this, studying literature works as a historical chronicle. Some of the works of Shakespeare depict political and social unrest in Britain, and it gives readers an overview of how and what happened throughout time in a creative manner other than just reading dates and facts. It makes everything more realistic and it goes deeper into the reader’s feeling and emotions. In turn, this gives them something to think and ponder about, issues and dilemmas not only from the past but for the present as well. Some stories and works encourage others to change the world, to contribute to society, and make a stand of what is right and justifiable. It evokes readers to empathize with the main character for them to have a much wider view of the world and of society.
Furthermore, literature can help us develop our morals and beliefs, as it deepens our attitude and understanding of certain situations and dilemmas. It clearly represents to us what is evil and what is good. We may not be conscious about it, but it actually inspires us to live our lives the right way. In fact some revolutionists in world history were inspired from various literature and stories that made an impact in their lives.
Another thing that literature can help us with is the development of our grammar and spelling. Reading different types of literature may inspire us to write our own story, and you will be amazed at how your English writing can be improved in such a short period of time.
I can truly say that reading literature, regardless of its nature and author, helped me become more open minded and appreciative of every culture in the world. It gave me a good sense of insight about humanity and it formed my philosophy about the world at large.