Why Study Literature?

There are more reasons to study literature other than the fact that it has been done for years. Yet the fact that literature has been highly studied throughout the ages should show on some level that there is some important reason for doing so. The study of literature is valuable and should be participated in by all students, especially considering it will affect their future studies whether it be in literature or some other subject area.

One of the reasons why I became interested in reading when I was in middle school was because I felt I was missing some important information that could be found in literature. I began asking for the classics for Christmas and my birthday. I wanted to understand the references made by teachers and other adults, people I felt were intelligent. This is not a ridiculous notion. Everyday there are references being made to classic works of literature in movies, music, and television shows, media that students are voluntarily subjecting themselves to. By having read the classics students can create for themselves a greater understanding of what is being said or portrayed in contemporary visual arts.

Another important reason to study literature is that it helps to develop critical thinking skills. To be able to think critically and to pay close attention to details is an important skill. This skill can be applied to any subject area, especially as students get older and their studies become increasingly difficult.

Reading different works of literature also is good for expanding a students understanding of different points of view. By reading a work of literature by a minority a student is better able to comprehend that groups plight. This is much better way for students to realize different points of view of different people, as opposed to having the facts fed to them by a teacher who probably has no more experience with that group than the students do.

Reading literature is also important when it comes to vocabulary and grammar instruction. Not only does reading literature expose students to more diverse literature in a context they will hopefully be able to understand, it also gives students an idea of what good grammar looks like (depending on the work). For example, students who come from a background that does not use Standard English are going to better understand how to use the option of using Standard English if they see it in use, as opposed to having grammar rules thrown at them without a real reason to use it. It also improves writing skills for the same reason, because it provides an example. Standard English and good writing skills are important when it comes to standardized tests. It would be incredibly difficult for a student to get a good score on the SAT's if they have horrible grammar, reading and writing skills.

The best reason for studying literature has to do with enjoyment. By reading classic works of literature, works that have stood the test of time, students will be exposed to works that have been enjoyed by thousands, perhaps millions. Hopefully by reading good works students will develop a love of literature and find the joy that comes from reading an artfully crafted novel.