Definition
- (verb) Reading is utilizing combined skills such as critical analysis, interpretation, and comprehension to understand a written text’s meaning and purpose.
- (noun) Reading encompasses different versions of written texts containing literary devices such as metaphors, similes, symbolism, etc.
Significance
Reading offers different insights containing both fact and bias; by deriving the purpose and meaning of texts, readers are offered both different perspectives and interpretations varying from their own. By analyzing the authorial purpose and literary devices, we can apply critical thinking to question the structure of societies such as hierarchy, racism, and sexism. Exposing readers to different experiences, cultures, and backgrounds, they can be applied to a broader view than just reading; such as society. Reading encourages readers to challenge societal standards and promote growth and change.
Examples
Example 1: To Kill a Mockingbird
Although the novel was written to explore and critique different societal themes such as racism and injustice, To Kill a Mockingbird contains many outdated racial stereotypes and a white savior narrative. By analyzing and recognizing the flaws of this novel, we can identify both the societal standard for when it was written along with providing critique to challenge current racial discrimination as well.
Example 2: Beloved
The novel Beloved centers around a Sethe, struggling with trauma formed from the abuse she had endured during her enslavement at a plantation. The novel uses the specter of Sethe’s dead daughter, Beloved, to symbolize the lingering effects of slavery that are not affected by time. The novel serves the same purpose of educating readers about the inhumane and unjust hierarchy of society that still remains in the modern day.
Example 3: “Self Help” Books
These books essentially do the job for you (readers) in terms of analyzing. They specifically break down the hierarchy, in this book’s harmful societal standards, capitalistic systems, etc.
