Literature and culture

In every corner of the world, literature and culture are deeply intertwined each shaping and reflecting the other in powerful ways. Literature doesn’t just tell stories; it captures the soul of a people and preserves the history, and challenges us to think about who we are and what we value.

From ancient oral traditions to modern novels, literature has always served as a mirror to culture. It reflects the beliefs, struggles, joys and contradictions of the society. In African literature, for example writers like Chinua Achebe and Ngugi Wa Thiong’o explores themes such as colonialism, identity and tradition. Through their words, readers can experience life from different cultural perspectives; understanding how history’s and heritage shape identity.

In many societies, especially those with strong oral traditions, literature has been the tool used to pass down wisdom and morals. Folktales, legends, and proverbs are not just stories-they are cultural heritage. They teach young people courage, respect, loyalty and community values.

In a globalized world, literature allows us to experience different cultures without leaving our homes. Reading books from other parts of the world builds empathy and challenges stereotypes. It also helps us find a common ground—realizing that people everywhere experiences love, joy, loss and struggle.

( Tawhida Akhter  4) That literature is a reflection of society is a truth that is broadly recognized. The literature explains a society, its good ethics and its troubles. In its restorative function, literature reflects the social ills of a society with a vision to make the society understand its faults and make recompense. It also initiatives the ethics or positive values in society for people to imitate. Literature, as a simulation of human action, frequently provides a portrait of what people are thinking and how they are acting in society. In literature, we find stories intended to depict human lives and actions through various characters who, by their words, actions and reactions, express assured messages for reasons of education, knowledge and recreation. It is inconceivable to find a work of literature that eliminates the stances, confidences and ideals of the society since no writer has grown completely hidden from the world around them.

In conclusion, literature and culture are inseparable. Literature reflects the heart of a people, their past, their dreams, and their fears. As students and readers, engaging with literature is not just academic, it’s cultural. It helps us appreciate adversity, understand our own identity, and connect with others across time and place.

Reference

Tawhida A. (2022,). Culture and literature. https://www.cambridgescholars.com/resources/pdfs/978-1-5275-8060-2-sample.pdf

Ends..

By Obadia Machogu

John

The author is an experienced radio journalist and media manager.