Why you should read the classics

Classics are considered classic for a reason. They are rich in content, often providing insights into human nature that are just as relevant today as when they were written.

While some people may view classics as dry and boring, the truth is that they offer a wealth of knowledge and entertainment value. If you're looking to expand your horizons, there's no better way to do it than by reading the classics.

There are real benefits to reading classic literature - whether it's booked by George Elliot, Jane Austen, or William Shakespeare. Here are my reasons why reading the classic can make a positive change in your life.

Classic stories boost your language skills.

Classics can improve your vocabulary, reading comprehension, and writing skills. By reading classics, you'll be exposed to new words and concepts that you may not have come across in your everyday reading.

This can help to broaden your understanding of the English language and improve your communication skills.

You don't need to read Shakespear, however. Just getting through Oscar Wilde's witty short stories can help you appreciate the impact that words and language can make. And you'll see a vast improvement in how you communicate every day.

If you send emails, run a blog, or write for a living, classics can help make you a better writer.

They help you understand different cultures.

One of the benefits of reading different types of classical books is that you can learn about new cultures. Many classics are set in different countries and provide a window into the customs and traditions of that time period.

This can be a great way to learn about other cultures and expand your understanding of the world.

Classic literature teaches you about important historical events

Another reason to read classics is that they can teach you about important historical events. Many classics are set during specific time periods, such as the Victorian era or the Renaissance, and offer insights into what life was like during that time.

They can also provide valuable lessons about important historical events, such as the French Revolution or the American Civil War. Books like War and Peace or A Tale of Two Cities are two examples of great classic literature that give insights into people and the major historical events.

Reading the classics can improve your critical thinking skills

Classics are readable and relevant even one hundred years after they're published because they contain insights into human nature and the struggles that people face across the millennia.

They contain complex ideas and stories. To understand what you're reading, you must engage in critical thinking.

This means analyzing the text, identifying the author's purpose, and considering the context in which the story is set.

Doing this can help improve your analytical and critical thinking skills. And you can apply your ability to process complex ideas in starting or managing a business, other people, or just doing your job better.

Classics provide a source of entertainment.

Last but not least, classics can be a great source of entertainment. They offer engaging stories and interesting characters that you can get lost in.

Whether you're looking for a lighthearted read or something more thought-provoking, there's sure to be a classic that you'll enjoy.

Keep in touch with our shared heritage.

There's something special about reading the same books that our ancestors read. It's a way of connecting with them and understanding their lives and experiences.

Classics are a part of our shared heritage, and reading them can help us to appreciate the cultural contributions that have been made throughout history.

Reading literary fiction helps develop empathy.

Did you know that there's a study finding a link between reading and being more empathetic?

Researchers asked students to read a variety of books, and the group that read literary content had a significant increase in their ability to empathize with others.

This is likely because literary fiction often contains complex characters with whom readers can identify.

This type of fiction allows readers to "walk in someone else's shoes" and understand their experiences, even if those experiences are very different from their own.

When you are empathetic, you'll see an improvement in all your relationships. Whether you're a salesperson trying to win over a client or a parent trying to connect with your child, empathy is a valuable skill to have.

And reading literary classics can help you develop it.

I recommend work by Toni Morrison, George Elliot, and Bret Easton Ellis, amongst many others who can help you see through other people's eyes. You'll understand how people can be complex and have different motivations and feel more empathetic as to why they behave as they do.

Conclusion

So there you have it! These are just a few reasons you should read the classics.

You should read them for pleasure, but you'll likely find that there are many other benefits as well.

Classics can improve your critical thinking skills, provide a source of entertainment, keep you in touch with our shared heritage, and help develop empathy.

As a result, you'll find yourself being a better writer, connect with others deeper, and even build mental resilience. You'll impact your partnerships, career, and more.

Just pick up a book or two and read it slowly. You'll find that time goes by easily enough, and you'll unconsciously gain the benefits of reading rich literary material.