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literature

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ARTICLE
from the
Encyclopædia Britannica

a body of written works. The name has traditionally been applied to those imaginative works of poetry and prose distinguished by the intentions of their authors and the perceived aesthetic excellence of their execution. Literature may be classified according to a variety of systems, including language, national origin, historical period, genre, and subject matter.

For historical treatment of various literatures within geographical regions, see such articles as African literature; African theatre; Oceanic literature; Western literature; Central Asian arts; South Asian arts; and Southeast Asian arts. Some literatures are treated separately by language, by nation, or by special subject (e.g., Arabic literature, Celtic literature, Latin literature, French literature, Japanese literature, and biblical literature).

Definitions of the word literature ... (100 of 14117 words)

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Additional Britannica Premium Sites

Articles from Britannica encyclopedias for elementary and high school students.

Literature inspired by World War I - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up)

The traumatic effect of World War I on the collective psyche of Europeans was reflected in the outpouring of literature that directly dealt with the war. Most of the works inspired by the war were infused with a sense of disillusionment, and some had a pointedly antiwar spirit.

LINKS
External Web Sites
The topic literature is discussed at the following external Web sites.
BookPage.com
Magazine distributed by libraries and bookstores. Includes book reviews, news, and author interviews.
Bibliomania - Free Online Literature and Study Guides
Page One Literary Newsletter
Literary newsletter about writers for writers. Includes information on the literary world, related news, author interviews, book reviews, articles, and writing tips.
The Internet Archive - The Open Library
Free Online Library
Database of texts of famous works of fiction, history, and philosophy. Includes short biographies of the authors represented.
Napoleonic Literature
"E-text of the book titled The Old Guard of Napoleon, by J.T. Headley, published in 1851 by Charles Scribner, New York. Traces the origins and development of the regiment and describes its role and participation in battles from Marengo to Waterloo."
Global Arts Review Magazine
Magazine focussing on international arts and literature. Provides information and articles on theatre, dance, music, visual arts, and films. Includes discussion on writing, bookmaking, spoken and scribal arts. Also features sample poetry, songs, and interviews.
PBS TeacherSource - Arts & Literature
Other Women’s Voices - Translations of Women’s Writing Before 1700
Specific Topical Information on Women Who Changed the World
San Jose State University English Department - Literary Locales
The Threepenny Review
"Information on this literary journal featuring poetry, fiction, and essays. Includes the current and past issues, submission guidelines, and subscription details. Also features a photo gallery, and facilitates online ordering of books and journals. "
Kidipede History for Kids - Ancient Languages and Literature

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literature. (2010). In Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved February 04, 2010, from Encyclopædia Britannica Online: http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/343579/literature

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