George Henry Lewes: 'The object of Literature is to instruct, to animate, or to amuse.'

The object of Literature is to instruct, to animate, or to amuse.

The quote by George Henry Lewes, "The object of Literature is to instruct, to animate, or to amuse," succinctly captures the multifaceted purpose and significance of literature in our lives. At its core, this quote suggests that literature serves the purpose of educating, inspiring, or entertaining readers. The straightforward meaning of this quote emphasizes the different ways in which literature can impact individuals, broadening their perspectives, stirring their emotions, or simply providing enjoyment.However, let's now delve into an unexpected philosophical concept to add depth and interest to this discussion. As we explore literature's role in instructing, animating, or amusing, let us consider the idea of existentialism. Existentialism, a philosophical school of thought that emerged in the 20th century, emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and the subjective experience of reality. This concept sheds light on how literature can transcend its surface-level objectives and delve into deeper existential questions, thereby enriching our understanding of the human condition.Starting with the first objective, instruction, literature plays a crucial role in conveying knowledge and educating readers about different perspectives, historical events, or philosophical ideas. Through narrative structures, intricate character development, and thought-provoking themes, literature can expose readers to new ideas and perspectives. It challenges us to critically analyze societal norms and ideologies, thus broadening our intellectual horizons. From dystopian novels like George Orwell's "1984" to historical fiction such as Markus Zusak's "The Book Thief," literature not only entertains but also instructs by offering valuable insights into the world we live in.Moving on to the second objective of literature, animation, we begin to explore the profound impact it has on our emotions and inner worlds. Existentialism suggests that personal experiences and emotions define our existence, and literature has the power to tap into these depths, animating our innermost desires, fears, and passions. Novels like Fyodor Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment" or Gabriel Garcia Marquez's "One Hundred Years of Solitude" transport readers into the complex realms of human psychology and emotion. Through vivid storytelling and relatable characters, literature has the ability to kindle empathy, provide solace, or provoke introspection, ultimately animating and enriching our subjective experiences of existence.Finally, the third objective of literature, amusement, emphasizes the importance of enjoyment and entertainment in our reading experiences. While existentialism might not immediately seem connected to this objective, it is significant to recognize that existentialist philosophy praises the pursuit of pleasure and finding meaning in one's individual experiences. Literature, ranging from light-hearted comedies to thrilling adventures, can transport us to different worlds, offering an escape from our own realities. By stirring our imagination and triggering an emotional response, literature entertains and brings moments of respite in our challenging lives.In conclusion, George Henry Lewes's quote encapsulates the overarching objectives of literature: to instruct, to animate, or to amuse. However, by considering the lens of existentialism, we unearth a deeper understanding of literature's impact. Through instruction, literature broadens our intellectual capacity; through animation, it delves into our emotional depths; and through amusement, it offers moments of pleasure and reprieve. So, the next time you pick up a book, remember that literature serves a greater purpose than mere words on a page - it has the power to shape our minds, touch our hearts, and illuminate the complexities of our existence.