For most of human history, when literature was studied, the authors that were deemed important enough to read were European (and then American) men. This practice leaves innumerable groups of great writers out of the consideration of important literature. It also means that a many great works were created but never known because the authors of those works were not members of the select few.
Today, critics and researchers in literature are working to add diversity to the collection of great works of literature. Poets from every area of the globe are now read. Poets from all of the different cultures that make up our diverse world are able to be found in the texts read by college students in literature classes like this one.
In your initial post, fully address the following questions: As a student of literature, how important do you think it is for courses like this one to include diverse voices in the readings? Some educators feel that students need to study “foundational” voices like Homer, Shakespeare, and Dante to understand the history and influences in modern literature. Other educators argue that the literature taught today should concentrate on including diverse voices that have been marginalized in the past.
Is it more important that our schools focus on the foundations of literature or diverse voices in literature? Elaborate on the reasons behind your opinion. What voices and texts in this course have been the most helpful, eye-opening, or have added the most value to the course?
What voices and texts in this course have been the most helpful, eye-opening, or have added the most value to the course?