University of M’sila Level: 1st Year License – Groups 4, 5, 6

Module: Literary Texts Lecturer: Dr. A. Ahmed Kadi

Lecture 01: Introduction to Literature

What is Literature?
Literature is a multifaceted and richly varied field of human expression, encompassing a wide array of
written and spoken works that span the entirety of human history. It is a concept that defies easy definition, as
it has evolved and transformed throughout the ages. Literature is defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as
"written works, especially those considered to have artistic or intellectual value, produced by human beings
through language as a medium of expression."

The definition encompasses the fundamental elements of what literature represents in the realm of
human expression and communication. It recognizes that literature is a vast and diverse field encompassing
various forms of artistic and intellectual expression. The inclusion of "artistic or intellectual value" in the
definition is significant. It implies that literature is not just any written text but is distinguished by its ability
to evoke emotions, provoke thought, and offer insight into the human experience. This criterion separates
literature from ordinary or purely informational writing.

Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary provides another insightful definition of literature, which

narrows down the concept to "writings having excellence of form or expression and expressing ideas of
permanent or universal interest."

This definition highlights the aesthetic and stylistic elements of literature. It suggests that literary works
are not just about conveying information but doing so in a masterful and engaging way. This quality sets
literature apart from mere writing. This definition implies that literature should meet a higher standard of
quality compared to ordinary writing. It should not just communicate, but do so exceptionally well and touch
on ideas that have broader and enduring relevance. It sets a bar for what is often considered literary excellence.

One of the most significant aspects of this definition is the requirement that literary works express ideas
of "permanent or universal interest." This implies that literature is not transient but has a timeless quality,
resonating across generations and cultures. It touches on themes, emotions, and experiences that are relevant
to humanity as a whole, not limited to a specific time or place.

In the 2nd edition of Key Concepts in Literary Theory, literature signifies “textual manifestations of
writing”. The term also refers to the “production of literary works and to specific bodies of poetry or prose”.
Literature has been used to designate any `imagi-native', `creative' or `fictional' writing, whether in poetry,
drama or prose. There is, furthermore, in the use of the term an implicit aesthetic or other form of value
judgment, so that some works are considered literary while others are not.

This definition offers a more nuanced and multifaceted perspective on the term. This definition
acknowledges that the term "literature" often carries implicit aesthetic or value judgments. In other words, it
suggests that literature is not a purely objective category but one that involves subjective assessments. Some
works are considered "literary" due to their perceived quality, creativity, or cultural significance, while others
may not meet these criteria.

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 The mention of "imaginative" and "creative" writing highlights the role of the human imagination in
literature. Literature often involves the imaginative construction of worlds, characters, and narratives that may
not exist in reality but serve to convey complex ideas and emotions.

The Origins of Literature:

The term "literatura" itself was derived from the Latin word "littera," which meant "letter" or "character,"
and was used to refer to written or printed symbols representing language. These letters were the fundamental
building blocks of written communication.

The Latin term "literatura" had several related meanings in classical Latin:

1. Writing and Learning: In its earliest usage, "literatura" referred to the act of reading, writing, and
acquiring knowledge through written materials. It was closely associated with education and the
acquisition of literacy.
2. A Body of Writings: Over time, "literatura" also came to refer to a body of written works,
encompassing various types of written material, including books, letters, and documents. This broader
sense of "literatura" laid the foundation for the modern understanding of literature as a collection of
written or spoken artistic and intellectual works.

As the Latin language influenced and evolved into the Romance languages, such as French, Italian, and
Spanish, the term "literatura" or its derivatives continued to be used to describe written works. Over time, as
languages developed and adapted, the concept of literature evolved to encompass a wide range of artistic and
intellectual expressions, eventually leading to the complex and diverse field of literature that we recognize
today.
Therefore, Literature's origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations. The earliest known works of
literature include the Sumerian Epic of Gilgamesh and ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, both dating back to
around 2000 BCE. These writings, carved on stone tablets or inscribed on papyrus, encompassed epic
narratives, religious texts, and historical records.

The Greek Legacy:

In classical Greece, literature reached new heights with the works of Homer, such as the Iliad and the
Odyssey, which are epic poems that explored themes of heroism and destiny. Greek drama, as exemplified by
the tragedies of Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides, delved into complex moral and philosophical questions.

The Roman Contribution:

The Roman tradition, influenced by Greek literature, produced renowned works such as Virgil's Aeneid,
which explored the founding myth of Rome, and the philosophical essays of Cicero and Seneca.

The Middle Ages and the Renaissance:

During the Middle Ages, literature thrived in the form of epic poetry like Beowulf and religious texts
such as The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri. The Renaissance period saw the revival of classical literature
and the emergence of works like Shakespeare's plays and Petrarch's sonnets.

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Modern and Contemporary Literature:
As time progressed, literature evolved to encompass a broad spectrum of genres and forms. This
includes the novels of Jane Austen and Charles Dickens in the 19th century, the modernist movement of the
early 20th century represented by authors like James Joyce and Virginia Woolf, and contemporary literature,
which continues to explore diverse themes, cultures, and narrative styles.

Therefore, literature is a dynamic and ever-evolving realm of human creativity that uses written and
spoken language to explore the human experience, evoke emotions, and provoke thought. Its origins can be
traced to ancient civilizations, and it has continued to adapt and diversify across cultures and time periods,
making it a fundamental aspect of our shared cultural heritage and a testament to the enduring power of words.

The Importance of Literature:

Understanding the Human Condition:

Literature, throughout the ages, has been a powerful lens through which we can understand the human
condition. It allows readers to step into the shoes of characters from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and
experiences. Literary works provide a platform for exploring the complexities of our existence, helping us
connect with the experiences and perspectives of others, both within our own time and across cultures.
Through literature, we gain empathy and a deeper appreciation of the shared and unique aspects of the human
experience.

Cultural Reflection and Preservation:

Literature serves as a mirror of a society's culture, values, and historical context. It preserves and
transmits the cultural heritage of a community or the collective memory of a people or nation through written
works, including folklore, myths, and classic literature. This helps to maintain a sense of identity and
continuity, ensuring that Literature plays a vital role in preserving and transmitting cultural legacies or
traditions from one generation to the next.

Social Critique and Change:

Literature has often served as a powerful force for shaping societal discourse. Many literary works are
vehicles for social critique and advocacy for change. Authors often use their writings to shed light on societal
injustices, inequalities, human rights and issues such as racism, gender discrimination, and poverty. Through
characters, narratives, and metaphors, literature allows authors to convey their thoughts and ideals, inspiring
readers to contemplate and engage with significant social and political issues. These works can serve as
catalysts for social awareness, sparking important conversations and inspiring movements for change.

Aesthetic and Artistic Expression:

Literature is a realm of artistic expression that engages with language in its most creative and evocative
form. Writers use words to craft imagery, evoke emotions, and convey ideas in imaginative ways. This artistic
dimension of literature enriches society by adding beauty and depth to human expression. It evokes a range
of emotions, from joy to sadness, from wonder to introspection. The sheer artistry of words and their
arrangement in literature makes it a unique form of expression and an avenue for human creativity.

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Intellectual Development:

Literature challenges readers to think critically, analyze complex narratives, and engage with abstract
ideas. This intellectual engagement fosters cognitive development and a deeper understanding of the
complexities of the world. It encourages readers to question, reflect, and explore their own beliefs and values.

In conclusion, literature is of immense importance, offering a profound understanding of humanity,

preserving cultural heritage, fostering critical thinking, shaping societal discourse, and providing a canvas for
artistic expression. It is a testament to the enduring power of words and the profound impact they have on our
lives and our understanding of the world.

How does society shape literature?

Society has a profound influence on the creation and development of literature. Literature is a reflection
of the cultural, social, political, and intellectual milieu in which it is produced. Here are several ways in which
society shapes literature:

Cultural Influences:

Literature is deeply rooted in culture, and it often mirrors the customs, values, and traditions of a given
society. Authors draw from their cultural backgrounds to create works that resonate with their audience. For
example, the folklore, myths, and legends of a society are often woven into the fabric of its literature.

Historical Context:

The historical context of a society plays a significant role in shaping literature. Literature can document
historical events, social movements, and periods of change, providing insights into the experiences and
perspectives of people during different eras. For instance, literature written during times of war, revolution,
or social upheaval often reflects the turmoil and challenges of those periods.

Social Issues:

Authors use their works to engage with these issues, raising awareness and advocating for change. For
example, the Civil Rights Movement in the United States had a profound impact on the literature of the era,
with many authors addressing racial injustice and inequality.

Literary Movements and Trends:

Literary movements and trends often emerge in response to societal changes and intellectual currents.
For instance, the Romantic movement in the 19th century was characterized by a focus on individualism and
emotion, reflecting the changing societal attitudes of the time. Similarly, the Modernist movement responded
to the upheaval of the early 20th century, experimenting with new narrative forms and themes.
Therefore, society serves as both the wellspring and crucible of literature. Literature is responsive to the
values, experiences, and challenges of its time, and it often serves as a reflection and critique of society. The
interplay between society and literature is dynamic and continuous, resulting in an ever-evolving body of work
that captures the spirit of it.

End of Lecture One!