Name: Alyssa Marie P.

Pepito Course: Literature of the World Section: BSN 4-A

Active Reading

Active reading is an approach to reading that involves actively engaging with the text to
enhance comprehension and retention. It encourages readers to interact with the text through
strategies such as note-taking, highlighting, asking questions, making connections, and critically
analyzing the content.

Active reading is undeniably the best approach for students. It empowers them to
comprehend complex materials, retain information effectively, develop critical thinking skills,
manage their time efficiently, and excel academically. As students strive for success in their
educational journey, adopting active reading as a fundamental practice can be a game-changer. It
not only enhances their learning experiences but also equips them with skills that are invaluable
for their future endeavors.

Pros of Active Reading:

 Improved Comprehension: It helps readers better understand the material by encouraging

them to interact with it actively.
 Enhanced Retention: Engaging with the text by taking notes or highlighting key points can
aid in information retention, making it easier to remember and recall details later.
 Critical Thinking Skills: It encourages readers to evaluate the text, consider different
perspectives, and identify underlying assumptions and biases.
 Effective Note-Taking: It often involves note-taking, which can serve as a valuable reference
when reviewing the material later or when using it for research or study purposes.

Cons of Active Reading:

 Time-Consuming: Active reading can be time-intensive, especially for lengthy or complex

texts. Not everyone has the time or patience to apply active reading techniques to every
reading material.
 Requires Effort: Active reading requires mental effort and concentration. Some readers may
find it mentally exhausting, especially for dense or academic texts.
 May Interrupt Flow: Frequent note-taking and highlighting can disrupt the natural flow of
reading, making it less enjoyable for some readers.

The “Divine Comedy”

The Divine Comedy, authored by Dante Alighieri in the early 14th century, is one of the
most celebrated and enduring works in world literature. Comprising three distinct parts - Inferno
(Hell), Purgatorio (Purgatory), and Paradiso (Paradise) - this epic poem explores the journey of
the soul through the realms of the afterlife. Throughout the journey, Dante's "Divine Comedy"
Dante uses allegory and symbolism to address themes of sin, redemption, divine justice, and the
human condition. The poem is not only a theological and philosophical exploration but also a
vivid depiction of the spiritual and moral struggles faced by individuals. Dante's journey serves
as a metaphor for the human quest for spiritual enlightenment and the ultimate reunion with the
divine. It has had a profound influence on literature, art, and theology for centuries and continues
to be studied and appreciated today.

Literary Analysis
Literary analysis is the process of examining a piece of literature (such as a novel, poem,
play, or short story) to understand and interpret its various elements, including its themes,
characters, plot, setting, symbolism, and literary devices. The goal of literary analysis is to delve
deeper into a text, uncovering its underlying meanings, exploring the author's intentions, and
gaining a richer appreciation of the work's artistic and intellectual aspects.

Process of Literary Analysis:

1. Read the Text: Start by carefully reading the assigned literary piece. Pay close attention
to the little things, make notes, and try to get lost in the book.
2. Identify the Elements: Make a list of the important textual components, such as the
characters, setting, storyline, and themes.
3. Analyze the Plot: Look at the progression of the action in the narrative. Determine the
conflict, increasing action, climactic event, falling action, and resolution of the story.
Think about how the plot relates to the book's larger themes and message.
4. Character Analysis: Examine the characteristics, drives, and character growth of the
various characters. Investigate the relationships between characters and how each one
advances the plot.
5. Setting and Context: Consider the time and place in which the story is set. Explore how
the setting influences the characters and themes.
6. Themes and Symbols: Determine the main ideas or messages that the writing is trying to
get across. Find recurring symbols and motifs throughout the work and think about their
meaning in light of the themes.
7. Literary Devices: Examine how the author uses devices like allusion, figurative
language, imagery, and irony. Discuss how these literary methods contribute to the text's
impact and meaning.
8. Author's Style: Consider the author's tone, diction, and narrative voice while evaluating
their writing style. Think about how the work's overall impact is influenced by the style.
9. Interpretation and Conclusion: Create an interpretation of the text based on your
investigation. What do you think the writer is attempting to say? What parts of the text
best support your interpretation? Create a thesis statement that encapsulates your
research.
10. Support with Evidence: Provide concrete examples from the text to back up your
interpretation. Cite or cite excerpts to support your arguments.
11. Take into account critical perspectives: In some circumstances, it may be beneficial to
take into account various literary theories or critical perspectives.
12. Compose Your Analysis: Compile your analysis into a well-written essay or report.
Give your interpretation, back it up with facts, and explain why. An introduction,
several body paragraphs, and a conclusion should be included in your analysis.
13. Revision: Review and revise your analysis for clarity, coherence, and precision. Ensure
that your argument is well-supported and effectively communicated.