Why Read More Classic Literature? by London Koffler

Why Read More Classic Literature?
by London Koffler
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I have a confession: despite having an English degree, I have not read some of the greatest classics in literature. Don’t get me wrong; I have read a lot of classics, but one cannot possibly read all of them. This year, I have challenged myself to finally give attention to my list of TBR classics. Here are some of the reasons why I made this resolution:

1. Classic literature may be more of a challenge.

Why do many people have difficulty reading and comprehending the works of Shakespeare? I’ve found the answer is that many struggle with older forms of English found in classic literature. They aren’t familiar with half the words and, therefore, don’t understand the plot. Classic literature invites you to research obscure words and develops your vocabulary. The more you read, the better you will understand.

1. Classic literature will connect you to the past.

Classics have survived for so long because they contain universal themes, understandable and relatable to people of any time period. Even if you are reading an old classic, it will have a character you identify with, a situation you are experiencing, or a society that mirrors your own. Not only can this help you learn history, it can help you feel connected with people of the past.

1. Classic literature highlights changes in culture.

The language an author uses speaks volumes about a time period’s social conventions. For example, in novels like Pride and Prejudice, the way women are spoken to and about says a lot about their history of being viewed as the “weaker sex.” Some novels, like Tom Sawyer, use language that was acceptable in the nineteenth century but is now considered racially derogatory. The language used in classic literature demonstrates opinions from the time of publishing but also highlights how much progress we have made as a society.

1. Classic literature is referenced everywhere.

If you don’t read classic literature, you may miss the allusions to it in everyday life. References can be found nearly everywhere, from TV shows and paintings to band names and advertisements. Recognizing these allusions may make you feel as if you’re exchanging inside jokes with your fellow readers!

1. Classic literature stretches your imagination.

Classic authors utilize different literary devices and story patterns than a contemporary author might. For example, many classic books conclude bleakly, with little or no hope for their characters, while modern readers like for their favorite characters to have happy endings. Classic tragic love stories, like Romeo and Juliet, have fascinated people for centuries, and for good reason. Tragedy makes us uncomfortable, but it can also be cathartic. Instead of experiencing the satisfaction of a happy resolution, explore what tragedy makes you feel.

1. Classic literature set the canon for contemporary literature.

The first novel written in a genre sets the standard for all future novels in that genre. For example, if you love Gothic literature, reading the first novel written in the Gothic style, The Castle of Otranto, may allow you to better understand your contemporary Gothic novels. While undoubtedly there have been many changes to the genre, the core characteristics are still present.

Edited by Binta Dixon