They’re ‘classics’ for a reason

I was interested in Ryan Fraser’s letter to the editor (“Read tomorrow’s classics today,” May 15) but want to argue for the other side.

As a college teacher, one of the most striking deficiencies I see in our young people is their ignorance of and lack of appreciation for history. History is not merely a compilation of facts, such as when, where and by whom Julius Caesar was assassinated (although if an incoming freshman knows that without Googling it, we are impressed). It also includes literary history, which is a part of our cultural heritage to which a good education should expose us.

The Harry Potter books are, indeed, wonderful fun to be enjoyed by all. But classics such as the four mentioned (“Romeo and Juliet,” “Brave New World,” “The Lord of the Flies” and “To Kill a Mockingbird”) have stood the test of time because they are excellent in terms of both exemplary writing style and thought-provoking content. Academic exposure to such works enhances the prospects of cultural literacy, which, in turn, contributes to an enlightened citizenry.

Wayne P. Pomerleau

Spokane