Defining Literature through Genres, Purpose, and Functions

The Definition of Literature

Literature is a type of verbal art that conveys human experiences. It includes poetry, plays, novels and short stories. It can also be used as a tool for education and entertainment. It is classified by language, country, genre and subject matter.

Pierre has just finished his first novel, a manifestation of his fears and desires. He turns to literary critic Jean for guidance.

Definition

The term literature can be defined in different ways. It can be used broadly to mean any written works, or more narrowly to include poetry, drama, and fiction. It can also be defined by a specific subject matter or by a set of aesthetic criteria.

For example, the 11th edition of Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary defines literature as “writings distinguished by excellence in form or expression and expressing ideas of permanent or universal interest.” However, this definition leaves much to be subjectively determined. For many critics, what makes something literature is how it affects a reader at the level of style rather than substance.

Literature is a form of art that uses words to create an emotional response in the reader. It is distinct from other types of writing, such as cookbooks or travel guides, that are primarily functional and not artistic. It is often categorized by language, nationality, period, genre, and theme. The term may also refer to a literary canon, which is the recognized body of work for a particular author.

Functions

Many scholars disagree on the definition of literature. Some define it as a body of writings distinguished by their intention and perceived aesthetic excellence, while others see it as a transcription of ideas that are permanent and universally relevant. Literature is also classified according to a variety of systems, including language, nation, historical period, and genre.

Pierre is an aspiring novelist who has spent countless sleepless nights pouring his heart and soul into his masterpiece. He hopes that it will be a reflection of his innermost fears, desires, and existential crises, but he is unsure of how to evaluate his work. To find out, he seeks out Jean, a literary critic. They meet at a cafe and begin to discuss the meaning of literature.

Genres

Genres help match readers’ preferences for stories with what writers are producing. They also create a framework that allows scholars to analyze the importance of individual works within the overall literary canon. Genres are determined by form (length, for example) and content. They are also defined by common elements, such as supernatural creatures or technology.

For instance, science fiction focuses on futuristic and alien worlds. Horror and suspense genres center on fear-inducing plots, such as those in Stephen King’s “Carrie,” Shirley Jackson’s “The Haunting of Hill House,” and Edgar Allen Poe’s work. Romance novels feature love stories.

Poetry genres include light verse, which is playful and often uses nonsensical jokes and rhymes, and odes, which glorify certain subjects in lyrical, elevated verse. Narrative poems tell a story and include a character, setting, conflict, and ending. Fashion designer Virgil Abloh once said that he takes something familiar and changes it up by just three percent, creating a new look.

Purpose

Literature is an important part of our cultural heritage. It provides us with first-hand accounts of historical events and captures entire eras. It can also help to shape our beliefs and attitudes. Literature has a powerful impact on our lives, and some people try to control it by censoring books that they don’t like. Others have tried to categorize literature by subject matter, language or national origin, and by the criteria of artistic merit.

One of the most important aspects of studying literature is to understand its purpose. A good way to do this is to read through the text and identify its key characteristics. The characteristics include a sense of reality, an emotional connection with the characters, a central problem or tension, and figurative language. You should also note the literary purpose, which dictates the linguistic style and content of the text. This will help you analyse the work effectively. The TR program contributes to reader response theory, which explains the detailed mechanisms by which literature changes readers.

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