Question

Critical Lens: "A work of literature must provide more than factual accuracy or vivid physical reality... it must tell us more than we already know." - E. M. Forster

Consider the quotation above and decide whether you agree or disagree with it. Then, write an essay in which you support your assessment of the quotation through analysis of one or two of the literary texts you have read. Be sure to support your argument with specific details from the literary text(s) you have chosen . Your analysis should include consideration of formal features of the text(s), such as plot, setting, theme, and characterization.

Answer 1

Now before I assist you with this, is there any opinions you have to share on the topic? Or more information that might have came along with this? Such as a text with examples or some sort of critical information anyone helping would need to know?

Answer 2

The statement made by E.M. Forster about literature is a powerful one. It suggests that literature should do more than just provide factual information or vivid descriptions of the physical world. Instead, it should offer insights and perspectives that go beyond what we already know. In my opinion, I fully agree with this statement and believe that literature should strive to offer more than just surface-level information.

One literary text that exemplifies this idea is the novel "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. The story is set in the 1930s in a small town in Alabama and follows the lives of the Finch family and their interactions with the town's inhabitants. Through the eyes of the narrator, Scout, the reader is introduced to themes such as racial inequality, prejudice, and social injustice. While the novel is set in a historical context, it offers much more than just a portrayal of life in the South during the 1930s.

The novel's plot, characters, and themes are deeply intertwined. For instance, the character of Atticus Finch embodies the idea of using reason and compassion to combat prejudice and discrimination. He stands up for what is right and defends an innocent man despite facing backlash from the community. Through his actions, the novel offers important insights into the nature of justice and morality. Furthermore, the character of Boo Radley challenges the reader's preconceptions about outsiders and social norms. The novel uses his character to explore the idea of empathy and the importance of understanding different perspectives.

In conclusion, E.M. Forster's statement about literature is a powerful one that holds true even today. Literature should offer more than just factual accuracy or vivid descriptions of the physical world. Instead, it should provide insights and perspectives that challenge our preconceptions and expand our understanding of the world around us. "To Kill a Mockingbird" is just one example of a literary text that achieves this goal by using its plot, characters, and themes to offer a deeper understanding of the human experience.