Mrs. Calhoun
English 9
12 Dec. 2016
What Makes a Classic Literary Novel?
Classics are not always boring; they can be enjoyable to read. Often times, readers consider a book a classic if it is old, teaches a lesson, and has been taught in school for many years. For many, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, is deemed a literary classic because it contains these traits. Many people continue to relate to this timeless novel. To Kill a Mockingbird is a literary classic because it allows the reader to learn more about another culture, stands the test of time, and has a lasting effect on the reader.
Getting to know another culture is an element typically found in classic literature, including To Kill a Mockingbird. First Rose …show more content…
Finally, Rose Clark’s article “What Makes a Book a Classic” suggests that a work of literary merit “When people talk about “‘Classic’ In the book world they tend to be referring to books that have been around for many decades” (Clark). Books are classic when they have been around for a long period of time. Classic books also have taught many readers and been used in English schools. While Walter Cunningham eats at the Finch’s house, Scout learns her first lesson about respect. When Calpurnia says, “Don’t matter who they are, anybody sets foot in this house’s yo’ comp’ny, and don’t you let me catch you remarkin’ on their ways like you was son high and mighty!” (Lee 33). When Calpurnia scolds Scout for her remarks to Walter, she makes sure that Scout understands that people will be behavior and, think differently then she does. The lesson Cal wants her to understand those differences does not allow for someone to be rude. Cal’s lesson’s not alone applies to Scout, but also helps teach the reader an important lesson. Lesson like this one are prominent in To Kill a Mockingbird and, is a crucial component to making the novel a classic. In addition to always treat guest with respect Atticus teaches Scout a very important lesson that stands the test of time. Atticus teaches Jem a lesson when Mrs. Dubose died because, she died with courage and, bravery when she stopped …show more content…
To Kill a Mockingbird defines a classic because it reveals getting to know another culture back then like the variety of values and ways of talking, and it affects the reader and the reader can connect with the book. To Kill a Mockingbird is a literary classic because it reflects back to getting to know another culture, Stand the test of time, and has an effect on the reader. It is in a time of the 1900s, has different traditions, and it moves the reader in a way other books cannot do. It also creates a mood for the reader that they can understand and relate to. In literary classics, they have to have separate, unique traits that stand out more than ordinary books. With all of the books that are out there, literary classics are by far the most important books to society and can impact the way people live