1. Artistic Quality & Craftsmanship:
* Language: Is the language vivid, evocative, and skillfully crafted? Does it use figurative language, symbolism, and other literary devices effectively?
* Structure: Is the work well-structured and organized? Does it create a sense of unity and coherence?
* Theme and Ideas: Does the work explore complex and significant themes? Does it offer original insights into the human condition or the world around us?
* Character Development: Are the characters believable and engaging? Do they undergo meaningful growth or change?
2. Impact and Influence:
* Reader Response: Does the work resonate with readers on a personal level? Does it evoke strong emotions or provoke thought?
* Critical Reception: Has the work received positive reviews from literary critics? Has it been praised for its originality, innovation, or artistic merit?
* Enduring Appeal: Does the work continue to be relevant and enjoyed by readers over time? Has it become part of the literary canon?
3. Intention and Context:
* Author's Intent: Did the author intend to create a work of literary art? What were their motivations and goals?
* Historical and Cultural Context: How does the work reflect the time and place in which it was written? Does it offer insights into the culture, society, and beliefs of that era?
Beyond these criteria, it's also important to consider:
* Subjectivity: What one person considers a "literary work," another may not. Taste and personal preferences play a role.
* Genre: Different genres have different standards for what constitutes a "literary" work. Poetry, for example, often has different criteria than prose fiction.
* The Evolution of Literature: The definition of "literary work" has changed over time. What was considered literary in the past might not be considered so today.
Ultimately, whether something is considered a "literary work" is a matter of judgment and debate. There's no single answer, and many different factors can contribute to a work's literary merit.