At face value, Azar Nafisi’s inspiring words only speak of the positive benefits of the emotion empathy; however, upon delving deeper into the meaning of the aforementioned words, her essay sheds light upon the purposes of studying literature. Nafisi employs a common sentiment experienced by all human beings in order to reflect on the power of imagination and on the ability to transcend one‘s mental and spiritual limitations This multifaceted article serves to convey the purpose of reading literature, explore the value of studying literary works, and enlighten the reader by changing his or hers understanding of literature Nafisi opens her article by defending her staunch belief in empathy and explaining its roots in the desire to learn more about ourselves and others She states that through imagination and a willingness for infinity, “we transcend our limitations.
,and are able to look at ourselves and the world through a new and alternative lens.”
This statement directly correlates with the central purpose of reading literature; only by freeing our minds from the restraints and prejudices of everyday life can we hope to look objectively at literature and comprehend its full meaning, Literature is composed of several subtle layers that together form an intricate work of art, yet each individual layer provides insight into the significance behind the literary work, In essence, empathy factors into this ultimate revelation concerning the human nature or the world at large.
The understanding and compassion that blend to form empathy enables the reader to connect with both the author and his or her well-developed characters, thus forming a unique, intriguing link between human beings as a whole, Furthermore, the ability to empathize allows one to enter the world of a stranger through the sheer magic that is imagination.
This, coupled with a willingness to connect with the subject of the literary work, illuminates the purpose of literature as a medium through which to convey an insight about nature and the condition of our existence. The use of empathy in literature ultimately broadens the reader’s awareness and outlook on life. Azar Nafisi’s article has revolutionized my outlook on literature and its purpose entirely. Initially, I viewed literature simply as a source of entertainment and a means of conveying a specific point concerning human nature After being exposed to her words of wisdom, however, I found her proposal of the intricate relationship between empathy, imagination, and literature to be intriguing. Imagination is most often associated with childhood films and Disney movies, yet it can also apply to serious, literary fiction It enables the reader to merge as one with the author’s thoughts, concepts, and ideas, This notion seemed foreign to me due to its childish connotations, yet, upon reflection, it is a technique that is crucial in understanding the author‘s intentions. Azar Nafisi‘s article presents several innovative ideas concerning literary works, thus opening my eyes to a fresh outlook on the purpose of literature
Positive Benefits of the Emotion Empathy According to Azar Nafisi. (2022, Oct 14). Retrieved from https://paperap.com/positive-benefits-of-the-emotion-empathy-according-to-azar-nafisi/