Term 1

WK 1

Instructional Objectives:
The students should be able to:
1. explain the tem “Literature”
2. identify the sources of Literature
3. recognize the genres of Literature
4. state the importance of Literature

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Term 1
WK 1 Origin of Literature
Definition: Literature has been defined as the sum total of all works
of imagination which help to reflect and project the life and culture
of a people. Literature reflects man’s life in the society.

Literature can be described as a work of art which imitates life.

Literature can also be described as elements of written work having
excellence in form, expression, ideas with widespread lasting interest.

Origin of literature: Literature is older than man. Literature has

evolved over the centuries and its earliest form was oral, in terms of
worship of the Greek gods. Then it was passed on from generation to
generation, people started to document their histories in forms of
stories. This became written literature. So we can therefore say that
there are two types of literature; namely – oral and written.

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Term 1
week 1 Classification of Literature.
Written Literature:
The genres of literature that we are familiar with; drama,
prose and poetry all fall under the umbrella of written
literature, with some exceptions for poetry.

Oral literature on the other hand is represented in folklore

such as ballads, chants, cries, fables, laments, proverbs,
folktales, myths etc.
Literature can also be classified into two categories namely
fiction and non-fiction.

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Term 1
week 1 Genres of literature.
Drama a story written to be acted on stage. Drama imitates the actions of men. It is
usually divided into ‘acts’ and ‘scenes’ and involves the use of dialogue between
characters.
Drama can be defined as a literary composition that tells a story, usually of human
conflict, through the use of dialogue and action. It is usually performed by actors, in a
theatrical setting, for the benefit of spectators.

Prose: is an ordinary form of written language. Prose tells a story either in the
descriptive or narrative style. Prose comes in forms of short stories or novels, articles
or schedules.

Poetry: a structured piece of writing as a medium of expressing the poets emotions. is

language written with rhythm, figurative language, imagery, sound devices and
emotionally charged literature. They can be described as thoughts recollected in
tranquility. Poetry is written in lines, the lines are arranged to form stanzas, the
language is usually patterned and it is meant to be recited. There are different types of
poetry.

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Term1
week 1 Functions of literature.
Literature serves a lot of functions in our daily lives such as in
entertainment, where written works come to life in our
minds.
It helps to enhance vocabulary.
It helps in preserving our culture.
It serves as a medium to teach good morals and corrective
measures.
It is a source of information.
It is a source of education.
It provides the basis for criticisms.
It is a source of entertainment.

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 Assignment

In not less than 300 words, write an indigenous story

which is unique to your culture. A story that has
probably been passed down from generation to
generation.

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