'An Introduction to the Study of Literature’ by W. H. Hudson: A Special Lecture by Dr. A. A. Khan
Today, the Department of English at Samaldas Arts College organized a special lecture by Prof. Dr. A. A. Khan, Head of the Department, Samaladas Arts College on ‘An Introduction to the Study of Literature’ by W. H. Hudson for the students of the morning session. The session was enriching for both students and teachers, offering deep insights into the exploration of literature.
As they are learning English Literature, it is essential for students to first become fluent in English in terms of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Many students in the English bachelor's program are not fluent in English due to a lack of practice or their education in the Gujarati medium up to the 12th standard. Sir emphasized the importance of working on their English language skills, particularly in speaking, urging them to "learn to master the language."
Since the students have chosen to pursue a bachelor's degree in English language and literature, it is crucial for them to develop their language skills. I consistently remind first-year BA students that they have ample time to improve their language skills. Additionally, the first-year curriculum focuses on enriching language skills, particularly grammar and communication (LSRW) skills.
Sir emphasized the need for students to strengthen their vocabulary by using a standard English dictionary and to understand syntax, grammar rules, writing skills, reading skills, and speaking skills. He noted that we are not accustomed to speaking English every day. Students often avoid speaking English in the classroom due to the fear of making mistakes, but the only solution is to practice speaking English daily with friends and in class.
Moreover, after working on their language skills, it is essential for students to understand various literary terms to properly comprehend any literary work. The lecture focused on the book by W. H. Hudson, but understanding Hudson's book requires strong language skills. Unlike R. J. Rees, whose works are easier to understand, Hudson's writing is complex due to his long sentence structures and intricate language. Therefore, it is essential to expand one's vocabulary and understand where to place stress to grasp the meaning.
Additionally, understanding different literary terms is crucial. M. H. Abrams’s *A Glossary of Literary Terms* is a valuable resource for this purpose. When I was a bachelor's student, R. J. Rees was part of my syllabus, and his works were straightforward. In contrast, Hudson's complexity necessitates a more extensive vocabulary and a deeper understanding of literary terms to fully appreciate his writing.
Now we come to the important point about literature. Many people have a loose definition of literature, thinking it is "anything written." However, literature is far more complex and profound than that. It is not merely a collection of information or knowledge like science. Literature is a reflection of our emotions, feelings, and experiences. It has the power to transform us from within, shaking us to our core and affecting our sentiments and lives in significant ways.
In essence, literature is an expression of our lives. It captures the essence of human experiences, portraying the breadth of human emotion and thought. This makes literature a dynamic and evolving process, continually moving and changing with time, culture, and individual perspectives.
Matthew Arnold famously described literature as "the criticism of life." This means that literature offers a thoughtful reflection and critique of the human condition, society, and life itself. It is through literature that we gain deeper insights into ourselves and the world around us.
Literature also provides immense pleasure and has its own unique aesthetics. It is not just about the content but also about the beauty of language, the craft of storytelling, and the artistry of expression. Literature touches our lives in profound ways, offering us solace, joy, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of the human experience. Through its ability to connect with our innermost feelings and thoughts, literature remains an enduring and essential part of our lives.
The last point Sir discussed was ‘How to approach literature?’ He suggested that this can be achieved by cultivating the habit of reading. There are two primary ways to read literature:
1. Chronological Reading: This involves reading an author's works in the order they were written. For instance, reading Shakespeare from his first to his last work in chronological order. This method helps readers understand the evolution of the author's ideas and thoughts over time. It also allows for a comparative study of the author’s body of work, providing insights into how their themes, style, and perspectives may have changed.
2. Comparative Analysis: This involves comparing different writers or literary works from various time periods. By doing this, readers can identify similarities, commonalities, and differences among the works. This approach provides a broader understanding of group characteristics, such as the conventions of a particular literary period or movement, as well as unique personal characteristics of each writer.
Overall, these approaches not only deepen one's understanding of literature but also enhance the appreciation of the artistic and intellectual journey of writers throughout history.
Sir also emphasized the importance of reading the biographies of writers. Understanding the context in which a writer lived and wrote—often referred to as the zeitgeist—can provide valuable insights into their writing style and themes. By knowing more about the writer's life, readers can better appreciate the influences and experiences that shaped their work.
It was a truly enriching session. Really grateful to Khansir and the organizers for their efforts.
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