Understanding the cultural background of a story is an important tool when we read classic literature. Here’s how it makes our reading better:
Classic books were often influenced by the specific cultures and times they were written in. For example, in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, the story shows the social rules of early 19th-century England, especially about marriage and class. Knowing this helps us understand why characters act the way they do and what pressures they face in society.
Cultural backgrounds can help us see symbols and themes that we might miss otherwise. In Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe, understanding Igbo culture and the effects of colonialism helps readers understand why yam is so important in the story. It’s not just food; it symbolizes wealth and manhood.
Characters are influenced by the world around them. When we read The Great Gatsby, knowing about the Roaring Twenties—the time of great wealth, cultural changes, and jazz music—helps us better understand Gatsby’s dreams and the disappointment that comes later.
Looking at literature through a cultural lens helps us develop empathy and see things from different points of view. Engaging with various cultures encourages us to think critically and reconsider our opinions—this is a valuable skill in AP English and beyond.
In conclusion, appreciating the cultural background of literature not only helps us understand it better, but it also makes reading a much richer experience.
Understanding the cultural background of a story is an important tool when we read classic literature. Here’s how it makes our reading better:
Classic books were often influenced by the specific cultures and times they were written in. For example, in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, the story shows the social rules of early 19th-century England, especially about marriage and class. Knowing this helps us understand why characters act the way they do and what pressures they face in society.
Cultural backgrounds can help us see symbols and themes that we might miss otherwise. In Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe, understanding Igbo culture and the effects of colonialism helps readers understand why yam is so important in the story. It’s not just food; it symbolizes wealth and manhood.
Characters are influenced by the world around them. When we read The Great Gatsby, knowing about the Roaring Twenties—the time of great wealth, cultural changes, and jazz music—helps us better understand Gatsby’s dreams and the disappointment that comes later.
Looking at literature through a cultural lens helps us develop empathy and see things from different points of view. Engaging with various cultures encourages us to think critically and reconsider our opinions—this is a valuable skill in AP English and beyond.
In conclusion, appreciating the cultural background of literature not only helps us understand it better, but it also makes reading a much richer experience.