What is how to read literature like a professor?

Reading literature like a professor, as explored in Thomas C. Foster's "How to Read Literature Like a Professor," involves recognizing and understanding the common patterns, symbols, and literary devices that authors frequently employ. It's about moving beyond a simple surface-level reading to a deeper engagement with the text.

Here's a breakdown of key aspects:

• Recognize Patterns and Archetypes: Understand that literature often relies on established patterns, such as the quest narrative, the hero's journey, and common character archetypes. Recognizing these patterns (see: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Archetype) provides a framework for interpreting the story.

• Understand Symbols: Pay attention to symbolism. Objects, colors, and actions often represent something beyond their literal meaning. Ask yourself what a particular image or element could symbolize within the context of the story and the author's potential intentions. (See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Symbolism)

• Learn Literary Devices: Familiarize yourself with literary devices like metaphor, simile, irony, allegory, and allusion. Identifying these devices helps you understand how the author is crafting meaning and creating specific effects. (See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Literary%20Devices)

• Consider the Historical and Cultural Context: Understand that literature is always influenced by the time period in which it was written and the culture from which it emerges. Knowing the historical and cultural context can shed light on the author's themes and messages. (See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Historical%20Context)

• Pay Attention to Intertextuality: Recognize the relationship between texts. Authors often allude to or draw upon other literary works, myths, or historical events. Understanding these allusions can enrich your understanding of the text at hand. (See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Intertextuality)

• Consider the Author's Intent (Carefully): While the "death of the author" is a valid concept, considering what the author might be trying to convey can be helpful. However, be wary of assuming you know the author's definitive intention; focus on what the text suggests and supports.

• Look for Patterns in the Plot: Recurring events, mirrored characters, and repetitive imagery are rarely accidental. Investigate why the author chose to repeat these elements. (See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Plot%20Structure)

• Thematic Connections: Identify the central themes the author explores. Themes are the underlying ideas or messages of the work. Consider how different elements of the story contribute to the development of these themes. (See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Themes%20in%20Literature)

• It's All Political (Often): Acknowledge that literature frequently engages with social, political, and economic issues, even if subtly. Consider how power dynamics, social inequalities, and political ideologies are represented in the text.

• Recognize Irony: Be aware of different types of irony (verbal, situational, dramatic) and how they contribute to the overall meaning and effect of the work. (See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Irony)