LITERARY CANON Meaning and
Definition
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The term "literary canon" refers to a collection of literary works that are considered to be the most significant and influential within a particular time period or culture. It is a set of texts that are generally acknowledged and widely recognized as masterpieces or classics, representing the highest level of artistic and intellectual achievement within a given literary tradition.
The literary canon is often shaped by the collective judgment of scholars, critics, educators, and other experts who carefully select and preserve certain works that they believe to possess enduring value and relevance. These works are typically seen as possessing exceptional qualities such as aesthetic excellence, thematic depth, philosophical insight, and cultural significance.
The establishment of a literary canon can be influenced by cultural and historical factors, as well as the prevailing tastes and values of a particular society or era. While some texts within the canon endure over time, others may rise or fall in prominence as literary tastes evolve and new works enter the discussion.
The literary canon is a dynamic and evolving concept, subject to ongoing debates and revisions. Contemporary discussions surrounding the literary canon often involve challenging previously accepted works, questioning the traditional canon's exclusionary nature that reflects biases based on race, class, gender, sexuality, or other forms of marginalization. Scholars and critics continue to explore ways to broaden and diversify the literary canon, promoting previously marginalized voices and expanding the range of texts that are considered vital to our understanding of literature and its cultural significance.
Etymology of LITERARY CANON
The word "canon" has its roots in ancient Greek. In Greek, "kanṓn" (κανών) originally referred to a measuring rod or a straight edge used for construction or carpentry. This term later took on a metaphorical meaning of a rule, norm, or standard against which others can be measured or judged.
The term "canon" entered the English language in the 14th century, primarily through Latin and later Old French, referring to an ecclesiastical law or regulation.
The term "literary canon" specifically emerged in the late 20th century. It is derived from the idea of applying the metaphorical meaning of "canon" to the world of literature. It refers to a body of works, authors, or texts that are considered to be of enduring value and relevance in a given literary tradition or culture.
