Definition, Introduction and Application of Basic Concept of Literature Explained for SHS 1 Literature-in-English (Semester 1, Week 1)

Literature is more than reading stories or poems. It is the creative use of language to express ideas, emotions and experiences while helping readers understand themselves, other people and the society in which they live.

What You Will Learn

• The meaning of literature.
• The different definitions of literature.
• The two main types of literature.
• The importance of literature in society.
• Examples of oral and written literature.

Main Explanation

Literature refers to creative and imaginative writing that engages readers emotionally and intellectually through major genres such as novels, drama and poetry. It is also regarded as a collection of written works or as written and oral compositions that tell stories, present dramatic situations and influence human emotions. Literature differs from other forms of writing such as law, science and mathematics because it uses language creatively to reflect human experiences and social realities.

The concept of literature has been explained in several ways. It has been described as the product of human imagination that uses language creatively to reflect people’s relationship with their environment. Literature has also been described as a mirror that reflects the realities of society, the artistic use of language to express emotions and feelings, and a work of art that educates, entertains, criticises and warns society. These definitions help learners understand the broad nature of literature and distinguish it from Literature-in-English as an academic subject.

There are two distinctive forms of literature. Oral literature is the earliest form and is transmitted through the spoken word from one generation to another. It includes oral prose such as folktales, oral poetry such as incantations, chants and songs, and oral drama commonly performed during storytelling. Written literature consists of artistic written works such as novels, short stories, biographies, memoirs, essays and poetry. Both forms preserve culture, communicate ideas and enrich human understanding.

Literature performs many important functions in society. It entertains readers and audiences, exposes people to the realities of human existence and demonstrates the beauty and power of language. It also provides opportunities in the world of work, supports quality education and serves as a mirror through which people learn about the cultural norms of other societies. Furthermore, literature broadens awareness of life’s uncertainties and provides knowledge that helps people understand the world as a global village.

Learners develop their understanding of literature by discussing stories, analysing literary texts, comparing oral and written literature and participating in activities such as storytelling, drama, brainstorming and group discussions. These learner-centred activities strengthen communication, collaboration, critical thinking and appreciation of cultural diversity.

Type of Literature	Description	Examples
Oral Literature	Passed from generation to generation through spoken language.	Folktales, chants, incantations, songs and storytelling.
Written Literature	Presented in written artistic form.	Novels, short stories, biographies, memoirs, essays and poetry.

Importance of Literature	Benefit
Entertainment	Provides enjoyment and relaxation.
Human Experience	Reveals the realities of life.
Language Development	Demonstrates the beauty and creative power of language.
Education	Supports learning and intellectual growth.
Cultural Awareness	Promotes understanding of different cultures.
Global Awareness	Provides knowledge about the wider world.

Worked Examples

Example 1

Scenario: A learner is asked to classify different literary works into oral and written literature.

Explanation: The learner identifies folktales, chants and storytelling as examples of oral literature, while novels, essays and poetry are classified as written literature because they are presented in written form.

Example 2

Scenario: During a class discussion, learners explain why literature is described as a mirror of society.

Explanation: Learners explain that literature reflects human experiences, emotions, relationships and social realities, enabling readers to understand themselves, other people and the society in which they live.

Why This Topic Matters

Understanding the concept of literature provides the foundation for studying Literature-in-English. It enables learners to appreciate creative language, recognise the value of oral and written traditions, understand different cultures and develop communication, analytical thinking and creativity. Literature also encourages learners to reflect on real-life issues and apply lessons from literary works to everyday life.

Quick Practice

• Define literature using one accepted definition.
• State two differences between oral and written literature.
• Give three examples each of oral and written literature.
• Explain four functions of literature.
• Discuss why literature is often described as a mirror of society.

Summary

Literature is the creative use of language to express emotions, ideas and social realities. It exists in two major forms—oral and written literature—and serves important educational, cultural and social functions. By studying literature, learners develop language skills, appreciate cultural diversity, understand human experiences and build a strong foundation for further studies in Literature-in-English.