Difference Between Oral and Written Literature Explained for SHS 1 Literature-in-English (Semester 1, Week 2)

Stories can be told by speaking or shared through writing. From folktales told by grandparents to novels read in school, literature helps us learn about people, culture and life. Understanding the difference between oral and written literature is an important first step in studying Literature-in-English.

What You Will Learn

• What oral literature is.
• What written literature is.
• The main differences between oral and written literature.
• Examples of each form of literature.

Main Explanation

Literature is a creative way of expressing ideas, emotions, beliefs and experiences. It can be presented in two main forms: oral literature and written literature.

Oral literature is shared through spoken words. It is performed by a speaker and received by listeners. Because it is performed live, the presenter may adjust the performance to suit the audience or the occasion. Oral literature has existed for a very long time and was passed from one generation to another before written records became common.

Examples of oral literature include folktales, proverbs, riddles, traditional songs and praise poetry. These forms continue to entertain, educate and preserve the traditions and values of many communities.

Written literature is presented in written form. Readers can study it in books and other written materials. Unlike oral literature, a written work usually remains the same after it has been published, allowing different readers to experience the author’s original ideas.

Common examples of written literature include novels, short stories, drama and poetry. These works can be read repeatedly for study, enjoyment or research.

Comparing Oral and Written Literature

Oral Literature	Written Literature
Presented through spoken words.	Presented in written form.
Performed before listeners.	Read by readers.
Can be adapted during performance.	Usually remains unchanged after publication.
Existed before written literature.	Developed after oral literature.
Often shared within the community.	Can be read by individuals at different times and places.

Although they are presented differently, both oral and written literature help to preserve knowledge, entertain audiences and communicate important ideas from one generation to another.

Worked Examples

Example 1

Scenario: During a cultural festival, an elder tells a folktale to children gathered around a fire.

Explanation: This is an example of oral literature because the story is shared through spoken words. The audience listens to the storyteller, and the performance may change depending on the listeners or the occasion.

Example 2

Scenario: A student borrows a poetry book from the school library and reads several poems at home.

Explanation: This is an example of written literature because the poems are presented in written form. The student reads the author’s work as it appears in the book.

Why This Topic Matters

Understanding the difference between oral and written literature helps you appreciate how people communicate ideas, beliefs and experiences. Oral literature keeps traditions alive through storytelling, songs, proverbs and other performances, while written literature preserves creative works for readers now and in the future. Studying both forms helps you develop a deeper understanding of language, culture and literary expression.

Quick Practice

• Define oral literature in your own words.
• Define written literature in your own words.
• State three differences between oral literature and written literature.
• Give two examples of oral literature and two examples of written literature.
• Explain why both oral and written literature are important in preserving culture.

Summary

Oral literature and written literature are two important forms of literary expression. Oral literature is shared through speech and performance, while written literature is presented in written form for readers. Although they differ in how they are communicated, both preserve culture, educate society and entertain audiences. Understanding these forms provides a strong foundation for the study of Literature-in-English.