Didacticism

Definition

Didacticism refers to a philosophy of education and literature that aims to instruct or educate its audience while also entertaining them. This approach emphasizes moral lessons, ethical considerations, and social values, making it a significant characteristic in many literary works, especially during the Victorian era. It seeks to balance the dual objectives of teaching and engaging readers through storytelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Didacticism was a prominent feature in Victorian novels, where authors often aimed to impart moral lessons alongside entertainment.
2. Charles Dickens, for instance, used his novels to comment on social injustices and advocate for reforms, blending storytelling with didactic themes.
3. The emphasis on didacticism in literature was partly a response to the rapid social changes and industrialization occurring during the Victorian era.
4. Critics of didacticism argue that excessive focus on moral instruction can detract from the artistic quality of a literary work.
5. Notable Victorian writers often grappled with how to effectively balance didacticism and artistry, resulting in varied approaches in their storytelling.

Review Questions

• How does didacticism manifest in the works of Victorian authors, and what are some common themes they address?
  • Didacticism in Victorian literature often appears through characters who embody moral values and through plots that highlight social issues. Authors like Charles Dickens frequently tackled themes such as poverty, child labor, and class disparity, using their narratives to educate readers about these problems. This blend of storytelling and moral instruction aimed not only to entertain but also to provoke thought and inspire change in society.
• Discuss the tension between didacticism and artistic expression in Victorian novels. How do authors navigate this balance?
  • Victorian authors faced the challenge of delivering moral lessons while maintaining artistic integrity. Some writers, like George Eliot, skillfully integrated philosophical ideas into their narratives without sacrificing character development or plot. Others struggled with overtly didactic approaches that critics claimed diminished the literary quality. The debate over how best to balance these elements is a hallmark of Victorian literature, influencing the evolution of narrative styles during this period.
• Evaluate the impact of didacticism on the reception of Victorian literature in contemporary times. How has this influenced modern interpretations?
  • The emphasis on didacticism in Victorian literature has shaped contemporary readings by highlighting the socio-political contexts of the time. Modern interpretations often focus on how these moral teachings resonate with today's societal challenges, making classics relevant in discussions about ethics and social justice. Critics argue that while the instructional aspect can seem dated or preachy, it provides valuable insights into historical perspectives on morality and human behavior, enhancing our understanding of both past and present societal issues.

Related terms

Moralism:

A literary approach that emphasizes moral lessons and ethical standards, often critiquing behaviors and advocating for virtuous conduct.

Realism: A literary movement focused on representing everyday life and society as accurately as possible, often incorporating didactic elements to reflect social issues.

Allegory:

A narrative technique in which characters and events symbolize broader moral or political meanings, often used to convey didactic messages.