Why   Read Literature?

Why   Read Literature?

Prepare: Prior to writing your initial   post, read Chapters 1 through 3 of Journey into Literature

Reflect: Chapter 1 of our text provides a   number of reasons why people choose to explore literature. Clugston (2014) writes   that there is “a powerful curiosity about human relationships and how to cope   in the world in which we find ourselves” (Section 1.1, para. 2). The text   gives a number of general motivations for reading, but it is helpful to put   those motivations into context. Consider what your motivations are for   reading.

Write: Your initial post should be at   least 200 words in length, not including references. In your post, answer the   following questions:

  • What does literature offer an        individual?
  • How has the importance of        reading changed from earlier eras (pre-digital/audio/visual media) to        our present day? Do you think we read differently now than we did in        prior generations?
  • Do you think Clugston’s quote        is valid? How have perceptions regarding the value of literature        changed, if at all?
  • What causes people’s        perceptions regarding the value of literature to change?
  • Incorporate readings found in        Chapters 1 through 3 to help illustrate the points you make.

Respond to Peers: Respond to at least two of your   classmates’ initial posts. Each response should be at least 75 words in   length and address two or more of the following points:

  • Do you agree with your        classmates’ perspectives? Why, or why not? Be specific.
  • Ask a specific question to        encourage further discussion on the topic.
  • Challenge your classmates’        interpretation of literature and/or point of view.
  • Do a small amount of research        and share what you learn with your peers about the topic discussed in        this post.