21 Century Literature

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M r. M a r k B u d d y E . P a d e r n a l
Literature: Definition,
Nature and Function
Content of the Module
1. What is literature?
2. The nature of literature
3. The function of literature
1. 4Rs of literature
 What is Literature?
In the attempt to define the term ‘literature’, one
can distinguish between two general directions: a
broad and a narrow definition. The broad definition
incorporates everything that has been written down
in some form or another, i.e., all the written
manifestations of a culture (hence, there are terms
such as ‘research literature’, ‘the literature on civil
rights’, etc.).
 Needless to say that such a broad definition
is problematic as it does not really facilitate
communication about the topic. Furthermore,
this concept neglects the fact that in many
cultures in the past and for a number of
indigenous peoples today, literature has not
been captured in written media but has been
passed down in a long oral tradition of
storytelling, myths, ritual speeches, etc.
 Attempts to come up with a narrow
definition have, however, led to such a
diversity of approaches that one can hardly
talk about ‘the’ narrow definition.
Nevertheless, it is possible to sift out some of
the criteria scholars have applied in order to
demarcate ‘literary texts’ from ‘non-literary
texts’.
These criteria include:
• fictionality – product of imagination
• specialized language – differs considerably from
normal everyday language
• lack of pragmatic function – not have been intended
by the author for any specific purpose
• ambiguity – open to interpretation It is an
enduring expression of a significant human
experience in words well-chosen and arranged.
Enduring – lasting, not ephemeral
Expression – sharing; a manifestation
Significant – important, necessary, meaningful
Human – people; different human conditions
Experience – heart of literature
Words well-chosen and arranged

It comes from a Latin word “litera” which means

an acquaintance with letters.
Literature can be defined as everything in print.
It is a body of literary productions, either oral,
written or visual, containing imaginative language
that realistically portrays thoughts, emotions, and
experience of the human condition
Some loosely interpret literature as a faithful
reproduction of man’s manifold experiences
blended into one harmonious expression. Because
literature deals with ideas, thoughts and emotions
of man, literature can be said to be the story of
man. Man’s loves, grief, thoughts, dreams and
aspirations coached in beautiful language is
literature.
 The Nature of Literature

Literature is language in use that provides

insights and intellectual stimulation to the reader.
As one explores literature, he likewise discovers
the beauty of language.
Language is concentrated and meaningful;

 its purpose is not simply to explain, argue, or make a point

but rather to give a sense of pleasure in the discovery of a
new experience;

 it demands intense concentration from the readers; and

 It indicates that the language of literature has originality,

quality, creativity, and pleasure.
 The Functions of Literature
Dulce and Utile
 Dulce – to entertain; to give pleasure and
enjoyment

 Utile – to instruct
 4Rs of Literature

1. Recreation – Literature is a means of reassembling reality.

We want to see what we cannot see in reality.
2. Recognition – Literature helps us recognize the people and
their contribution.
3. Redemption – Literature is a means of modification of
behavior.
4. Revelation – Literature is a means of recording history. It
reveals the past, the present, and the future.
They all recognize the fact that:

i. Literature is imaginative
ii. Literature expresses thoughts and feelings
iii. Literature deals with life experiences
iv. Literature uses words in a powerful, effective and
yet captivating manner
v. Literature promotes recreation and revelation of
hidden facts.