PURPOSE OF LITERATURE

Purpose of Literature

• Horace's dictum: "dulce et utile" (sweet and useful).

Aesthetic Pleasures

• Literature provides pleasure through intellect and emotion.

• Aesthetic pleasure stems from:

  • Form

  • Rhythm

  • Imagery

  • Language manipulation

• Example: Wordsworth's "Tintern Abbey" portrays nature's beauty.

Usefulness of Literature

• Literature conveys messages about the human condition.

• Provides insights into existence and life's meaning.

• Allows readers to perceive and reflect on their lives objectively.

• Offers new perspectives and articulates previously unexpressed thoughts.

Particularity vs Generality

• Literature's power lies in its particularity.

• Acts as a vehicle for universal themes (jealousy in Othello, etc.).

• Enhances understanding beyond philosophy through context.

Role of the Artist

• Artists as propagandists of their perspectives on life.

• Literature can be a tool for moral growth, depending on the artist's values.

• Responsible literature teaches morals; irresponsible literature may mislead.

Emotional Resonance

• Literature alleviates emotional pressure for both writer and reader.

• Engenders empathy, allowing readers to experience emotions vicariously (e.g., Hamlet).

• Heightens awareness of diverse human experiences.

Soul and Spirit in Literature

• Literature cultivates the soul alongside intellect and emotion.

• Aims to deepen understanding of existence and the power behind creation.

• Literature reveals the beauty of life and imparts meaning and purpose to existence.