I recently read another blog by The Color of Lemons who had a similar discussion about reading and how critics and
people alike think certain genres and books create a negative influence over
people.
She
too saw the connection in Northanger
Abbey and Twilight and how for
over two centuries we as people are obsessed with making sure women are not
corrupted. Where as I see the ability to choose as the great message in the
books and women having the right to decide for themselves what they want—and
proceed with caution—she highlights the importance of education.
As
she sees it, education and not being highly educated is the downfall of
Catherine in not making smart decisions. She highlights her country background
and how her family didn’t push for high academics, making Catherine ignorant to
the world around her—allowing gothic novels to rule her life. Had Catherine
been brought up in proper society though, she would understand that novels are
meant for entertainment and enjoyment and shouldn’t be applied to real world
thinking.
This
assumption that Color of Lemons highlights can then be applied to Twilight; with a well-rounded education
people understand that novels are for fun and shouldn’t influence your judgment
and morals.
I
love the way she made these connections and whole heartily believe that
education plays a big part in how much fiction influences your judgment. But I
think not just your personal education can help you deceiver what to take from
novels and won’t should be left on the pages for enjoyment.
You
need to take in other people’s opinions and their education—especially those
that are “older and wiser.” They have been around longer, witnessed more of
history and society than you have and can give you great advise and guide you
the correct way.
Don’t
get me wrong, your personal education
is very important! But don’t rely on just one opinion when deciding something
and deciphering what is corrupting and what is not—it can give you great
insight for your judgment.
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