What Makes A Book Great?

This article explores the perspectives of Matthew Arnold and F.R. Leavis on what constitutes a great book. Arnold believed that literature could serve as a replacement for religion in terms of moral development and cultural identity. He emphasized the importance of lofty subject matter, style, and purpose, drawing inspiration from ancient literature. Leavis, influenced by Arnold, argued that literature should aim to civilize, but the article criticizes his dismissal of lesser writers and his focus on greatness, suggesting that this perpetuates literary snobbery. The article also delves into Leavis' analysis of authors like George Eliot, Henry James, and Jane Austen, highlighting the importance of characters being products of an informed imagination and possessing a seriousness of moral purpose. The text raises questions about the relevance of novels to contemporary issues and the role of literature in shaping moral outlooks. [Extracted from the article]