My Dissertation Again!!

[nannon]

Just wondered if anyone had any ideas about why literature is so influential on society? Dating back to around the time of Jane Eyre. Any hints of books to look at? or any ideas in general? Thank you! x

[jno]

my guess would be that in the days before radio/TV and the internet, novels were a major way of disseminating ideas around the country. Early globalisation, if you like; before the 18th century, society was more locally/regionally based.

[metagirl]

novelists are able to elaborate on politically unpopular views or discuss topics that may be considered un-PC or potentially socially stigmatizing. for example, a new book for young readers is about a youth who decides to be a suicide bomber. a very relevant and important topic but which can easily be charged with negativity - the author, through literature is able to address and explore it with impunity and add to society's understanding of the issue of terrorism. well, that's my opinion anyways! good luck - great topic!

[carolegif]

Jane Eyre was printed at a time when more people were able to get access to education and therefore be able to read. Novels have always commented on social issues, look at Jane Austen (even earlier than Bronte) and the way her books highlight the position of women in society and the importance of good marriages. Dickens was the main protagonist of social comment with his novels. A good book to read on this is The Madwoman in the Attic which comments on women in Victorian novels.

Good Luck with the dissertation.

carolegif