Literature Meaning
Literature Definition & Usage
Written works, especially those considered of superior or lasting artistic merit.
Examples
- "Shakespeare's plays are considered some of the finest works of literature."
- "She loves reading contemporary literature, particularly novels about social justice."
- "The library houses a wide range of literature from ancient texts to modern works."
- "I am studying French literature as part of my degree program."
- "Literature often reflects the values, struggles, and philosophies of its time."
The body of written or spoken material used in a particular field or for a specific purpose.
Examples
- "The literature on climate change has been expanding rapidly over the past decade."
- "We need to review the relevant literature before beginning our research."
- "This paper draws heavily on the existing literature about renewable energy sources."
- "There's a growing body of literature that examines the impact of social media on youth behavior."
- "He’s well-versed in the literature of psychological theories and practices."
Cultural Context
The word 'literature' originates from the Latin word 'litteratura,' which means writing or letter. Over centuries, the term has evolved to encompass works of artistic merit and academic texts. In Western culture, literature has long been associated with the great classical authors such as Homer, Dante, and Virgil, and remains a cornerstone of education and intellectual discourse.
The Library of Echoes
Story
The Library of Echoes
Evelyn had always been drawn to the old, dusty library at the heart of the university. It wasn’t just a place filled with books, but a sacred space where the echoes of the past whispered to anyone who would listen. The shelves, heavy with the weight of centuries, housed works from the world's greatest authors. As she wandered past the aisles, her fingers grazing the spines of worn books, she felt connected to a lineage of writers that spanned from ancient Greece to modern-day thought leaders. Her professor had asked her to write a paper on the influence of 20th-century literature on contemporary social movements. As Evelyn sat down at one of the old oak tables, she opened the literature on the subject, filled with detailed essays, articles, and stories. It was here, among these works, that she found the depth of human experience laid out in all its complexity. In the midst of her research, she found a particular novel that resonated deeply with her — a classic piece of literature that explored the struggles of a young woman in a rapidly changing society. As she read, she realized that literature was not just a window into other worlds, but a mirror reflecting the realities of her own time. The words on the page spoke of resistance, of voices rising against injustice, and the quiet yet persistent power of art. Later, she took the novel and other related literature to her professor. He nodded approvingly, asking her to expand her analysis of how literature serves as both a reflection and a catalyst for social change. Evelyn smiled, understanding fully for the first time the power of literature: to change hearts, to challenge minds, and to shape the world.
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