The Case for Classics
Many high schoolers complain when they look at a course syllabus (大纲) for Chinese and see literary assignments that include The Story Of The Stone and other pieces of classic literature. But there are some good reasons why reading the classics is an important part of a 21st century education.
As students explore texts that were written hundreds of years before, they peer through a window into the world as it was in those days. Being able to hear those voices from the past is a privilege young people should be grateful to have.
Furthermore, as students examine classic works, they begin to see the fabric of history from a different perspective. Absorbed with their own daily activities, most teens rarely think about the fact that human civilization has been around for a long time. The experiences and perspectives of those people can provide important insights into the challenges that teenagers face today. The wording and style may have changed, but the underlying themes that stir the heart, including love, loss, courage, revolution, and humor, are as true today as they were for the authors of these early works.
One of the most important reasons to study classic literature, however, is to expand one's mind. To illustrate this, a group of scientists gathered volunteers who agreed to have their brains scanned while reading phrases from classic literature in both their original form and in modern translations. The result of the study showed a significant increase in the brain activity of people reading the original texts.
It connects students to the history and values of the broader human community. It challenges their minds with the ideas and words of people who came before them. Therefore, if today's teens are going to grow as readers, writers, and critical thinkers, it is essential that classic literature remains a part of their education.
A. Clearly, that's why it is so important.
B. Classic literature is important in a high school education.
C. These were things that were on people's minds at that time.
D. Students often wonder why they have to study "ancient" writing.
E. Reading writings from long ago can be like stepping into a time machine.
F. Nor do they realize their lives are connected to the lives of the ancient people.
G. Learning to appreciate an unfamiliar style of writing can stretch the brain and help it grow stronger.
