Introduction to Literature
Literature can be defined as a printed and unprinted material that informs, instruct entertain and educate people. Literature is given from the word literate- which means the ability to read and write
Types of literature
- Fiction: Fiction is a story invented by someone by someone, it is not real, it is a story that center on imaginary people and events. E.g The beautiful ones are not yet born
- Non- fiction: It is a different type of literature of fictions,plays,poem and articles they centre on real fact of event which are not created or imaginary. E.g Julius Caeser by William Shaleopeo
Sources of Literature
- Folklore: This are traditional stories that takes roots from culture of a particular group of people
- Folklore dance: It is a kind of traditional dance peculiar to a particular area, the folk dance is usually done by a folk dance. Folk music is a traditional music that has been played by ordinary people in a particular area for a long time.
- Ritual: It is a ceremony that is performed in order to mark an important religious or social occasion. It is performed to appease traditional gods or deities
- Myths: This is a story that many people believe, which may or may not be true. It is an ancient story especially those ones invented in order to explain natural or historical event.
- Legend: It is an old, well known story often centres on adventure of brave people, or magical events. A legend is one who is famous and admired for being extremely good
- Customs and tradition: Habit or behavioural of the people in a particular society. Tradition is a way of life of people in a particular society that has existed for a very long time.
Purpose of Literature
- It helps in the development of language through reading of books written in such a language
- It teaches moral lessons, correct wrong doings and recognizes achievement
- It entertains, educate and instruct students
- It creates awareness of ones society and that of others
Test and Exercise
- Define Literature
- Give three purpose of literature
- Differentiate between fiction and non fiction literature
- List 5 sources of literature
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