In today’s society, being well-read is often seen as a sign of intelligence. People who read a lot of books are considered smart and knowledgeable. However, this modern pressure to read extensively is quite different from how reading was viewed in the past. In earlier times, reading was approached with a different mindset.
In the pre-modern era, reading was highly valued, but the focus was not on the number of books one read. Instead, the emphasis was on thoroughly understanding a few select books. This wasn’t just because books were expensive; it was about concentrating one’s attention and avoiding distraction from too many texts.
In the pre-modern world, the purpose of reading was a significant concern, unlike today where this question is often overlooked. For Christians and Muslims, reading was a path to holiness, a way to align one’s mind with divine wisdom. The Bible and the Quran were considered the most important texts, and they were read repeatedly and with deep focus, rather than skimming through numerous books.
Similarly, in ancient Greece, the focus was on knowing two key texts: Homer’s “Odyssey” and “Iliad.” These works were seen as the ultimate guides for living honorably and making decisions in both military and civilian life.
Saint Jerome, a prominent Christian scholar, exemplified this minimalist reading approach. Despite his vast contributions to scholarship, images of his study show very few books. This suggests that even the most learned individuals of the early church read fewer texts than many people do today.
In modern times, the approach to reading has changed significantly. The Enlightenment era introduced the idea that there should be no limit to reading, with the goal of knowing everything. However, this exhaustive approach doesn’t necessarily lead to happiness.
Given this, it might be worthwhile to revisit an old question: Why am I reading? Instead of trying to know everything, we could focus on reading to learn how to be content. This change in perspective can reduce the pressure to read constantly and indiscriminately.
With a clear purpose in mind, the urge to read every new book diminishes. By understanding that we read to find contentment, we can choose books that best explain how to achieve it. For example, we might select books that help us understand ourselves better, improve family relationships, find satisfying careers, or build meaningful connections.
Ultimately, a truly well-read person isn’t someone who has read a vast number of books. Instead, it’s someone who has been profoundly influenced by a few carefully chosen titles. This approach fosters a deep connection with select works, promoting self-awareness and personal growth.
In conclusion, while modern society encourages extensive reading, there is value in revisiting the pre-modern approach. By focusing on the purpose of reading and choosing books that align with our personal goals, we can lead a more meaningful and contented life.
Keep a reflective journal where you document your thoughts and insights after reading each book. Focus on how the book aligns with your personal goals and the impact it has on your understanding of yourself and the world. This activity will help you engage deeply with the material and reinforce the concept of purposeful reading.
Form a discussion group with your peers to explore a few select texts in depth. Choose books that are known for their profound insights and discuss how they relate to the idea of reading for contentment and personal growth. This will encourage you to think critically and share diverse perspectives.
Write an essay comparing the pre-modern and modern approaches to reading. Analyze how the purpose of reading has evolved over time and reflect on which approach resonates more with you. This exercise will deepen your understanding of the historical context and its relevance today.
Create a curated reading list that aligns with your personal and academic goals. Select a few key texts that you believe will have a significant impact on your life. Share your list with classmates and explain your choices, fostering a dialogue about intentional reading.
Participate in or organize a seminar where you explore different philosophies of reading. Invite speakers or professors to discuss the historical and cultural shifts in reading practices. Engage in activities that challenge you to rethink your own reading habits and their purpose.
Reading – The process of interpreting written language to derive meaning and understanding. – In her literature class, reading Shakespeare’s plays allowed her to appreciate the complexity of his characters and themes.
Literature – Written works, especially those considered of superior or lasting artistic merit. – The study of literature often involves analyzing the cultural and historical context of classic novels and poems.
Purpose – The reason for which something is done or created, or for which something exists. – The purpose of the narrative technique in the novel was to provide deeper insight into the protagonist’s inner thoughts.
Texts – Written or printed works, regarded in terms of their content rather than their physical form. – Analyzing different texts from the Romantic period reveals the era’s emphasis on emotion and nature.
Knowledge – Information and skills acquired through experience or education; the theoretical or practical understanding of a subject. – Her extensive knowledge of Victorian literature made her an invaluable resource for her classmates during discussions.
Contentment – A state of happiness and satisfaction. – The character’s journey towards contentment is a central theme in the novel, highlighting the importance of self-discovery.
Influence – The capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something. – The influence of modernist writers is evident in the experimental narrative style of contemporary literature.
Growth – The process of developing or maturing physically, mentally, or spiritually. – The protagonist’s personal growth is depicted through her evolving relationships and changing perspectives throughout the novel.
Understanding – The ability to comprehend or grasp the meaning of something. – A deep understanding of the historical context can enhance one’s appreciation of a literary work.
Approach – A way of dealing with a situation or problem; a method or style of doing something. – The professor’s approach to teaching literature involved encouraging students to explore diverse interpretations of the texts.
