Talks on the study of literature. by Arlo Bates

"Talks on the Study of Literature" by Arlo Bates is a series of lectures transformed into a comprehensive exploration of literary theory and criticism, likely written in the late 19th century. The work delves into the essence of literature, the criteria that define literary merit, and the emotional depth a work should convey, ultimately positioning literature as an art form vital to human understanding and experience. The opening of the volume sets the stage by addressing the complexity of defining literature. Bates shares a humorous anecdote about a pedantic definition of a lynx, underscoring the challenge of articulating what literature encompasses. He suggests that literature should primarily be understood as "polite literature" or "belles-lettres," focusing on those works that embody sincere and typical human emotions. By emphasizing the importance of genuine emotion and artistic expression, he lays the groundwork for a deeper examination of various aspects of literature, such as methods of study and the value of classics, establishing a philosophical framework that underscores the significance of literature in enriching human life. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

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About this eBook

Author Bates, Arlo, 1850-1918
LoC No. 04013796
Title Talks on the study of literature.
Contents What literature is -- Literary expression -- The study of literature -- Why we study literature -- False methods -- Methods of study -- The language of literature -- The intangible language -- The classics -- The value of the classics -- The greater classics -- Contemporary literature -- New books and old -- Fiction -- Fiction and life -- Poetry -- The texture of poetry -- Poetry and life.
Credits Produced by Michael Seow, sp1nd and the Online Distributed
Proofreading Team at www.pgdp.net (This file was
produced from images generously made available by The
Internet Archive)
Reading Level Reading ease score: 54.3 (10th to 12th grade). Somewhat difficult to read.
Language English
LoC Class PN: Language and Literatures: Literature: General, Criticism, Collections
Subject Literature -- Study and teaching
Category Text
eBook-No. 42773
Release Date
Last Update Oct 23, 2024
Copyright Public domain in the USA.
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