Use of Literature in Language Teaching and Learning: A Critical Assessment

Abstract

Literature is the media of teaching and learning authentic language. The language of literature is well-organized and wonderful choice of  diction. Language  generally  represents  literature.  The recent historical  positions   regarding  the   use  of  literature  in  English language teaching, and the inclusion of literary texts may foster the  development  of reading,  writing,  speaking, listening,  and critical thinking skills. This is the reason why, this paper argues for the use of  literature  for  language  teaching  purposes.  More important, it claims  consistently  that the  use of literature for language teaching purposes can promote literary understanding and general linguistic awareness among teachers and learners.

Key words: Literature, Language, Skills development, Motivation, Oppositions and Resistances.