1. Analyzing texts:
* Understanding the meaning and purpose of literary works: This involves examining the plot, characters, setting, theme, style, and language of a text.
* Interpreting the author's intentions: While we can't definitively know what an author intended, we can analyze their choices to understand the work's potential meanings.
* Examining the work's context: This includes understanding the historical, social, cultural, and political factors that shaped the work.
* Exploring the work's relationship to other texts: This could involve comparing and contrasting works, tracing literary influences, or identifying literary movements.
2. Studying the history of literature:
* Understanding how literature has evolved over time: This involves tracing literary periods, movements, and genres across different cultures and languages.
* Studying the works of major authors and literary figures: This helps to understand the development of literary thought and the evolution of writing styles.
3. Exploring the impact of literature on society:
* Understanding how literature shapes our understanding of the world: Literature can be a mirror to society, reflecting its values, beliefs, and problems.
* Examining the role of literature in shaping culture and identity: Literature can contribute to our sense of self and our place in the world.
In summary, literary study is the multifaceted exploration of written works through analysis, interpretation, contextualization, and investigation of their impact on society.