The Centrality of Literature in the English Curriculum / Dwight L. Burton.

Literature can play a prominent part in revitalizing the teaching of English because it can provide students with both immediate and future rewards. As an immediate reward, literature allows students to imaginatively experience situations which they have not yet encountered. It thus acts acts as a liberating force for young people from the confines of limited experience and inadequate knowledge of human nature. The "ultimate reward" of literature is obtained "through the chemistry of experience and verbal symbol." Through the metaphoric, imaginative language of literature, men can identify and indirectly come to terms with their fears and sorrows. Another reason why literature should figure prominently in the English curriculum is that the study of literature can be significantly related to the study of composition and language. The oral reading of literature, as well as dramatic activities, can not only provide an additional dimension of experience with literature but also help students gain further comprehension and appreciation. Also, three basic kinds of writing can grow out of the study of a literary work: interpretative and critical, imitative, and writing that derives from ideas, meanings, or literary elements. (SW)

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