Literary Theory: A General Education Elective Textbook for Peking University Quality Education

Author: Yang Zhu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-11-01
Features: Literature is sacred. She is like the lightning of the soul, tearing open the dark curtain of the night and bringing us the radiance of life. Everyone can receive nourishment from beauty, understand the essence of life, and be inspired spiritually to rise above stagnation, thus approaching a higher realm of intellectual life. Literature is also ordinary. She is like a kind companion, accompanying us as we slowly walk along the long road of life, crossing obstacles and breaking through loneliness. Everyone can become a participant in literature. Literature is not far from us; it is right beside us. Humanity has created literature in pursuit of the fullness and perfection of life, achieving thousands of years of literary brilliance. At the same time, based on its conscious essence, humanity has also established literary theory. Literary theory reflects humanity's deep thinking and rational self-reflection on the literary activities it engages in. Literature is a realm of beauty. When participating in literary activities, we primarily rely on our ability to perceive and comprehend beauty. However, in human psychological structures, perception, comprehension, and understanding are intertwined and mutually advancing. Mastering literary theory and using the light of reason to literature can effectively enhance our understanding of literature. In turn, a deep understanding of literature can guide us to perceive it more keenly and comprehend it more thoroughly. The perception and comprehension of literature and beauty, carried out on the foundation of profound understanding, will open up a new perspective and elevate us to a higher level previously unattainable. Of course, mastering literary theory cannot replace the reading of literary works. Literary theory is merely like a signpost indicating the direction, but to truly enter the hall of literature, everyone must take their own steps forward to appreciate the charm of literary works and explore their mysteries.