How Literature Reflects and Shapes Culture

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Yet literature does not merely reflect culture; it actively shapes it. Works like Uncle Tom’s Cabin in the United States or Things Fall Apart in Nigeria influenced public discourse and even political movements. By giving voice to marginalized perspectives, literature can challenge dominant narratives and inspire social change.

In a globalized world, translated literature has become a key bridge between cultures. Reading novels from different countries allows people to experience unfamiliar contexts and viewpoints, fostering empathy across boundaries. At the same time, the global literary market can sometimes favor certain narratives over others, shaping which aspects of a culture are visible internationally.