Student Question
What does Hellenism mean in literary terms?
Quick answer:
In literary terms, Hellenism refers to works inspired by Greek literature, style, or forms. It includes stories, novels, dramas, or poetry influenced by classic Greek elements. Examples include James Joyce's Ulysses and Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series, which draw from Greek mythology. Analyzing literature through a Hellenistic lens involves focusing on Greek devices, such as the chorus used by Shakespeare, highlighting the significant influence of Greek culture on Western literature.
The term Hellenism used in literary discussions refers stories, novels, dramas, or poetry that has been inspired by classic Greek literature or makes use of classic Greek style or forms. Examples abound: James Joyce's Ulysses, for example, is a modern telling of the Odyssey. Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series embodies hellenism and draws inspiration from greek mythology and philosophy. You can also analyze literature through the lens of hellenism by particularly focusing on the Greek devices and style within the text. For example, Shakespeare was influenced by and used the dramatic device of the chorus in several of his plays; the chorus originally developed in Greek drama. Western literature has been heavily influenced by Greek literature, style, and philosophy.
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