Literary Worth? How is This Determined?

It is challenging to consider elements in literature that would make it considered worthy. As an individual, we all have our own opinions that allow us to decipher what reading we enjoy. Three elements that can help assess worth in works of writing are the revolutionary steps the writing takes, if the work challenges judgment, and the standard of value that the work has to the reader.

The poem '˜Aunt Hetty on Matrimony' by Fanny Fern would definitely be considered worthy in literary circles. Ms. Fern challenges the concept of the average woman's life in getting married, which shows that the work takes revolutionary steps, challenging women to reconsider their domestication that was standard at the time. "O, girls! Set your affections on cats, poodles, parrots or lap-dogs; but let matrimony alone.'( Fern, P. 1795) Ms. Fern depicts a different view of marriage than what the girls dream about, and she challenges the judgment of her readers, making them question their judgment on the topic as well. "But, what's the use of talking? I'll warrant every one of you'll try it the first chance you get; for, somehow, there's a sort of bewitchment about it. I wish one half the world were not fools, and the other half idiots." (Fern, P. 1795). Lastly, the deciphers for themselves if they enjoyed the work, if they would recommend the work to someone else, if they learned something from the piece, and if the piece offered some introspection.

These three distinguishing factors showcase Fanny Fern's work in a light that can provide students/readers with a different viewpoint and should be offered as listed reading within English classes. I believe it is essential to have a well-rounded view of society, to establish your own world view. For women, marriage was the only option. They married, had a family, and supported their family to the best of their abilities. '˜Aunt Hetty on Matrimony' definitely challenges the readers to think outside of the box and offers a different perspective on marriage. Literary works offer significance to readers when they can offer insight into subject matters that challenge judgment, and allow for readers to think and define meaning.

Works Cited

Levine, Robert et all. The Northern Anthology of American Literature. New York. 2007. Print
The Standard of Literary Value. New York Times. 1881. Print