1. Oral Tradition:
* Folklore and Myths: Stories, legends, and myths passed down through generations played a crucial role in shaping early literary traditions. They served as repositories of cultural knowledge, values, and beliefs.
* Bards and Storytellers: Oral poets and storytellers were essential figures in ancient cultures. They memorized and recited epic poems, tales, and histories, transmitting cultural narratives and preserving traditions.
2. Religious Texts:
* Sacred Scriptures: Religious texts, like the Bible, Quran, Vedas, and others, have profoundly influenced literature. They provide moral guidance, theological perspectives, and source material for countless works.
* Religious Writings: Other religious writings, like the Talmud, the Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita, have also shaped literary traditions and influenced philosophical and ethical ideas in literature.
3. Ancient Civilizations:
* Ancient Greece: The Greeks developed the foundations of Western literature, including epic poetry, drama, and philosophical discourse. Their works like Homer's *The Iliad* and *The Odyssey* and Plato's dialogues are cornerstones of literary history.
* Ancient Rome: Roman literature built upon Greek influences, developing new genres like satire, history, and epistolary writing. Works like Virgil's *Aeneid* and Ovid's *Metamorphoses* are classics of Roman literature.
4. Medieval Period:
* Chivalry and Courtly Love: Medieval literature was heavily influenced by the ideals of chivalry and courtly love, as seen in works like *Beowulf* and *The Song of Roland*.
* Religious Drama and Lyric Poetry: The Middle Ages saw the development of religious plays and a flourishing of lyric poetry, particularly in the works of Dante Alighieri and Geoffrey Chaucer.
5. Renaissance and Enlightenment:
* Humanism and Individuality: The Renaissance emphasized humanism and individualism, leading to the development of genres like the sonnet and the play.
* Reason and Science: The Enlightenment period saw the rise of reason and scientific inquiry, which influenced the development of philosophical and satirical literature.
6. Modern and Contemporary Literature:
* Modernism and Postmodernism: 20th-century literary movements like Modernism and Postmodernism challenged traditional forms and explored new themes and styles.
* Social and Political Influences: Contemporary literature often reflects the social, political, and cultural issues of the time.
It's important to remember that these are just some of the major influences on literary culture. The rich tapestry of literature is woven from diverse threads, reflecting the history, values, and experiences of countless individuals and cultures.