Some people believe that studying literature is important for individual character building while others think it is a waste of time. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

Some people believe that studying literature is important for individual character building while others think it is a waste of time. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

 Today, the question whether literature still plays a major role in one’s character development is more acute than ever. However, while some might consider studying literature a waste of time, I tend to side with those who think of it as an irreplaceable tool in shaping one’s character.

On the one hand, some people might find studying literature a fruitless pursuit. This is mainly because a vast majority of literature pieces deemed worth studying deal with issues that would not be considered relevant by a modern reader. For instance, a contemporary student would not be able to gain any practical knowledge from a novel centered around serfdom, as its cultural and historical contexts differ drastically from the modern day. Furthermore, in an era of rapidly developing technologies the practice of reading itself could be viewed as obsolete. For example, with the rise of digital media, different information is widely accessible in alternative formats such as podcasts, films and video essays. Each of these media, in comparison to books, present information in a way that is more appropriate for a modern individual by handling current events and catering to the needs of a fast-paced lifestyle. Therefore, some argue that learning from literature seems counterproductive, as it has no practical value in today’s world.

However, I personally agree with those who acknowledge the importance of studying literature for the sake of personal growth and self-improvement. The main reason for that being that literature allows the reader to engage with universal dilemmas that transcend time and remain relevant regardless of historical context. For instance, a contemporary reader would be able to reflect on their own relationship with their parents after reading Ivan Turgenev’s “Fathers and Sons”, because generational conflict explored in the novel continues to resonate strongly with a modern reader despite the book being written over two centuries ago. Moreover, reading itself can significantly stimulate creativity by enhancing the reader's imagination. As a result, a person who dedicates a significant amount of time to studying literature would often develop stronger creative skills and perform better when given a creative assignment compared to a person who engages with information in other formats.

In conclusion, although some might consider studying literature outdated, such practice provides readers with a handful of opportunities to better themselves. Therefore, on balance, I believe that studying literature is essential for character development.