Literature is often seen as a reflection of the society in which it was born. It not only reflects the beliefs, values, and customs of a particular time and place, but also the forms and practices of that society.
Form refers to the different genres, styles, and structures to which literature can apply. Various forms have evolved over time, influenced by cultural, social and historical factors. For example, ancient epics, such as “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey” by Homer, reflect the tradition of oral storytelling prevalent in ancient Greece. It follows a specific poetic structure and uses conventions such as heroic characters, gods and goddesses, and grand stories.
Similarly, literary practice refers to techniques, themes, and themes used by writers. These practices are shaped by the cultural and intellectual environment of a particular time. For example, during the Romantic period of the 18th and 19th centuries, literature often focused on individualism, emotion, and connection with nature.
Writers such as William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge emphasized the power of imagination and the expression of individual emotions. Literature also reflects the social norms and values of a particular era. It can address social, political and cultural issues, providing insight into prevailing ideologies and power structures.
Furthermore, literature can act as commentary on the customs and traditions of a society. This can challenge or reinforce existing norms and offer alternative perspectives. For example, the feminist literary movement emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, challenging traditional gender roles and advocating equality. Writers such as Virginia Woolf and Simone de Beauvoir explored women’s experiences and challenged patriarchal structures through their work.
In short, literature is a reflection of the forms and customs of a particular society. It reflects the cultural, social and historical context in which it is produced, using a variety of forms and practices influenced by the dominant beliefs, values, and customs of that society.
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