THE CONCEPT OF LITERATURE AND KINDS OF LITERATURE

Lecturer:

Maghfira Labido S.Pd M.Pd

Compiled by:

Wilda Utami A12122128

Adinda Mawadda Rahma A12122143

Wilna Tri Rahayu A12122139

Viel Chensist Binti A12122144

ENGLISH EDUCATION STUDY PROGRAM

FACULTY OF TEACHER TRAINING AND EDUCATION

TADULAKO UNIVERSITY

2024-2025
PREFACE

This paper delves into the captivating world of literature, exploring its fundamental concepts
and the diverse array of genres that shape its rich tapestry. We will embark on a journey to understand
what constitutes literature, examining its defining characteristics and its enduring role in society. From
the soaring heights of epic poetry to the intimate whispers of personal narratives, we will uncover the
diverse ways in which literature reflects, shapes, and transcends human experience. This exploration will
shed light on the profound impact literature has on our understanding of ourselves, our world, and our
place within it.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

COVER............................................................................................................................... 1
PREFACE........................................................................................................................... 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................. 3
CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................... 4
1.1 Backgound..................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 Problem Formulation................................................................................................... 4
1.3 Objective ..................................................................................................................... 5
CHAPTER II DISCUSSION ........................................................................................... 6
2.1 DEFINITION OF LITERATURE........................................................................................ 6
2.2 CHARACTERISTICS AND KINDS OF LITERATURE.................................................. 7
2.3 CATEGORIES OF LITERATURE...................................................................................... 9
2.4 CHARACTERISTICS, KIND AND CATEGORIES
OF LITERATURE IN PROSE FICTION............................................................................ 10

CHAPTER III CONCLUSION........................................................................................ 13

3.1 Conclution ..................................................................................................................... 13
3.2 Suggestion..................................................................................................................... 13

REFERENCES ................................................................................................................... 14
 BAB 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background
Literature, a timeless and universal art form, has captivated humanity for centuries, serving as a
mirror to our collective experience and a window into the depths of the human soul. From
ancient myths and epic poems to modern novels and contemporary poetry, literature has
played a pivotal role in shaping our understanding of the world, ourselves, and our place within
it. This enduring power of literature stems from its ability to transcend time and culture,
connecting us to shared human experiences and fostering empathy, critical thinking, and
imagination. However, the vast and diverse landscape of literature can be daunting to navigate.
This paper aims to illuminate the fundamental concepts of literature and explore the rich
tapestry of genres that contribute to its enduring legacy. By examining the defining
characteristics of literature and delving into the unique features of various literary forms, we
seek to provide a comprehensive understanding of this multifaceted art form and its profound
impact on human thought and culture.

1.2 Problem Formulation

1. Explain the meaning of literature

2. Describe the characteristics and kinds of literature

3. Describe the categories of literature

4. Determine the characteristics, types, and categories of literature in fictional prose.

1.3 Objective

1. Defining the Concept of Literature: The paper will clarify the meaning of literature, exploring its
essential elements and distinguishing it from other forms of communication.

2. Examining the Characteristics and Kinds of Literature: The paper will delve into the defining
characteristics that distinguish literary works, such as aesthetic qualities, artistic intent, and cultural
significance. It will also explore the diverse range of literary genres, highlighting their unique
features and contributions to the literary landscape.
3. Analyzing the Categories of Literature: The paper will examine the various categories of
literature, such as fiction, non-fiction, poetry, drama, and prose. It will explore the key distinctions
between these categories and their respective subgenres.

4. Focusing on Fictional Prose: The paper will specifically analyze the characteristics, types, and
categories of literature within the realm of fictional prose. This section will provide in-depth insights
into the unique features of this genre and its diverse subgenres, such as novels, short stories, and
novellas.
 BAB II

DISCUSSION

2.1 DEFINITION OF LITERATURE

The definition of literature in the Collins English Dictionary is: "Literature is written
material such as poetry, novels, essays, etc., especially works of imagination characterized by
excellence of style and expression and by themes of general or enduring interest."
According to the Collins English Dictionary, literature includes various forms of written
works such as poetry, novels, and essays. This shows the diversity of genres in literature, where
each form has different characteristics and purposes. For example, poetry often focuses on the
beautiful and rhythmic use of language, while novels tend to be more complex in narrative and
character development. Essays, on the other hand, emphasize arguments and analysis. This
diversity allows space for different forms of creative expression.
Literature is also emphasized as imaginative works that excel in style and expression.
This means that literary authors don't just convey ideas or stories, but they do so in an aesthetic
and engaging way. The style of language used, word choice, and narrative structure all contribute
to the reader's experience. This excellence often makes literary works more appealing, evoking
deep emotions and thoughts in readers.
The themes in literature are often universal or have lasting appeal. This means that the
issues raised in literary works, such as love, loss, struggle, and identity, remain relevant even as
time passes. These themes create a connection between literature and the universal human
experience. Thus, literature serves not only as entertainment but also as a reflection and
exploration of deeper human conditions.
Roberts and Jacobs (2006:2) state that "Literature is composition that tells a story, dramatizes a
situation, expresses emotions, analyzes and advocates ideas."

Roberts and Jacobs' view highlights several important functions of literature:

1. Telling a Story: Literature functions to tell human experiences, whether real or fictional,
allowing readers to feel and understand different perspectives.
2. Dramatizing Situations: In literature, situations can be presented dramatically to highlight
conflicts or emotions, making readers more engaged with the story.
3. Expressing Emotions: Literature can express various emotions, allowing readers to feel and
understand the characters’ feelings, creating an emotional connection between the reader and the
text.
4. Analyzing Ideas: Literature also serves as a tool for analyzing ideas and concepts, encouraging
critical thinking about social, cultural, and political issues.
5. Advocating Ideas: Through literature, writers can present and support specific ideas,
encouraging readers to think about important issues in society.Overall, this view shows that
literature is not just entertainment but also a medium for reflection and deeper understanding of
human life.
2.2 CHARACTERISTICS AND KINDS OF LITERATURE
- Literature has the so called a range of characteristics such as excellent, aesthetic, creative,
imaginative, expressive, valuable, and universal.
1. Excellence
Excellence in literature means the work is of very high quality. The writer puts a lot of
thought into the words, style, and structure of the writing. A well-written book or story is
clear and interesting to read, making it easy for the reader to connect with the text. Great
literature stays in your mind even after you finish reading, and it makes you think about its
ideas and messages.
2. Aesthetics
Aesthetics is about the beauty of the writing. It refers to how the writer uses language to
create beautiful or artistic scenes. Writers use descriptions, comparisons, and rhythms to
make the reader feel or see what is happening in the story. For example, a poet may describe
a sunset in a way that makes the reader picture it in their mind. This beauty in the writing
makes it enjoyable to read.
3. Creativity
Creativity means the writer uses their imagination to come up with new and interesting ideas.
They may create new worlds, unique characters, or surprising stories. A creative writer thinks
outside the box and gives readers something different to enjoy. This can make the story
exciting and full of surprises.
4. Imagination
Imagination in literature lets the reader explore ideas or worlds that don’t exist in real life.
Writers create fictional creatures, magical worlds, or new histories that make readers dream
and wonder. Imagination helps the reader think in new ways and see the world differently
through the story.
5. Expressiveness
expressive means the writer is able to share feelings and emotions in their work. Writers use
words to make the reader feel what the characters are going through, whether it’s happiness,
sadness, fear, or excitement. When literature is expressive, it allows the reader to connect
with the characters and their feelings, making the story more emotional and impactful.
6. Value
Value in literature refers to the important lessons or messages it gives to readers. Literature
often explores big ideas like fairness, love, and courage. It can make readers think about their
own lives or the world around them. Some stories inspire readers to be better people or help
them understand different points of view. The value of a good story is in what it teaches us.
7. Universality
Universality means that the themes or ideas in literature are relevant to everyone, no matter
where they live or what their background is. Many literary works talk about experiences
everyone shares, like friendship, loss, or hope. These universal themes make literature
relatable to people across the world. Even if a story was written in a different time or place,
readers can still understand and connect with it.These characteristics together make literature
a special way of sharing ideas, emotions, and creativity that people around the world can
enjoy.
 -Kinds of Literature:
a. Fiction
Fiction is a type of literature created from the writer's imagination and not based on real.
events. The types of fiction include:
1. Novel: A long story that usually includes many characters, settings, and themes. Novels
have a complex and well-developed plot. Example: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
tells the story of the fight against racism in the United States.
2. Short Story: Fiction that is shorter than a novel, focusing on one character, event, or
theme. Short stories have a quick ending and are not too complicated. Example: The Gift
of the Magi by O. Henry is about the sacrifices made for love during Christmas.
b. Poetry
Poetry is a form of literature that focuses more on rhythm, sound, and language style.
Poetry often expresses emotions using compact and sometimes symbolic language. Types
of poetry include:
1. Lyric Poetry: Poetry that expresses personal feelings, usually short and subjective.
Example: Shakespeare's Sonnets, which talk a lot about love and time.
2. Narrative Poetry: Poetry that tells a story or has a plot. Example: The Odyssey by
Homer, which tells the epic journey of Odysseus.
c. Drama: Drama is a form of literature written to be performed. Drama shows conflict
between characters through dialogue and action. Types of drama include:
1. Tragedy: Drama that focuses on serious themes, often showing the downfall of the main
character due to their own weaknesses or bad luck. Example: Romeo and Juliet by
Shakespeare, which tells the story of love that ends in tragedy.
2. Comedy: Drama designed to entertain and make the audience laugh. The story often
ends happily. Example: The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde is a satirical
comedy about false identities.
3. Musical: Drama that adds elements of music and song as an important part of
storytelling. These dramas often emphasize emotional aspects through music.
d. Non-Fiction:Non-fiction is writing based on facts and real events. It includes various forms
such as:
1. Biography: The true story of someone’s life written by someone else. Example: Steve
Jobs by Walter Isaacson, which documents the life of Apple's founder.
2. Autobiography: The story of someone's life written by themselves. Example: The Diary
of a Young Girl by Anne Frank, which tells the life of a Jewish girl during World War II.
3. Essay: A short piece of writing that explores a particular topic or idea, usually from the
writer’s point of view. Example: *A Room of One's Own* by Virginia Woolf, which
explores the role of women in literature.
4. Journalism: Writing that reports events or facts, like news articles, investigations, or
reports. Journalism provides factual information to the reader.
5. Memoir: Similar to an autobiography but focuses on a specific period or experience in
the writer’s life. Example: *Becoming* by Michelle Obama, which describes her
experiences as the First Lady of the United States.
 e. Folklore and Mythology
Folklore and mythology are traditional stories passed down through generations. They often
serve as ways to explain natural phenomena, morals, or cultural values. Types include:
1. Fable: A short story that teaches a moral lesson, often using talking animals as the main
characters. Example: Aesop's Fables, which teach moral lessons like humility and wisdom.
2. Legend: A story based on historical events or real people but told with exaggerated or
fantastical elements. Example: The legend of *Roro Jonggrang*, which tells the origin of the
Prambanan Temple.

2.3 CATEGORIES OF LITERATURE

Categories of literature refer to the ways literary works are grouped based on different
criteria. Here are some main categories in literature:
1. Genre
- Fiction: Stories created from the imagination, including novels and short stories.
- Non-Fiction: Works based on facts and reality, such as biographies, essays, and
journalism.
- Poetry: Works that use figurative language and often have rhythm, such as sonnets, haikus,
and narrative poems.
- Drama: Works written to be performed, including tragedies, comedies, and musicals.
2. Form
- Prose: Text written in sentences and paragraphs, like novels and essays.
- Verse: Text written in the form of poetry, with specific rhythm and structure.
3. Style
- Realism: Works that depict everyday life accurately and objectively.
- Romanticism: Works that focus on emotions, nature, and individualism.

4. Audience
- Children’s Literature: Works aimed at children, including storybooks and fables.
- Young Adult Literature: Works for teenage readers, often dealing with themes of identity
and growing up.
5. Theme
- Historical Literature: Works that focus on historical themes and often portray real events or
people.
- Fantasy and Science Fiction: Works that create imaginary worlds or explore futuristic and
scientific ideas.
6. Cultural Context
- Regional Literature: Works that reflect the culture, traditions, and experiences of specific
regions, such as literature from certain areas of Indonesia.
- World Literature: Works from different countries that showcase the diversity of cultures
and global perspectives.

2.4 . CHARACTERISTICS, KIND AND CATEGORIES OF LITERATURE IN PROSE FICTION

 Prose fiction refers to any type of narrative writing that is not poetry and tells a story with
invented characters, events, and settings. It’s written in ordinary, everyday language (prose), rather than
in a structured or rhythmic form like poetry.

Examples of prose fiction are novels, short stories. For instance, books like Harry Potter is an examples of
prose fiction, as they are written in regular language and tell fictional stories.

1.Characteristics of prose fiction

a. Narrative Form: Prose fiction is written in ordinary, everyday language, without a specific rhyme or
rhythm, unlike poetry. It tells a story.

b. Imaginary Elements: The events, characters, and settings are often fictional or invented, though they
can be inspired by real-life situations.

c. Plot: Prose fiction has a structured plot with a beginning, middle, and end. The plot may include
conflict, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

d. Characters: These are the people, animals, or creatures involved in the story. They can be complex and
undergo development throughout the story (dynamic characters) or remain the same (static characters).

e. Setting: The time and place where the story takes place. It could be realistic or entirely imaginary.

f. Theme: The underlying message or central idea of the story, such as love, friendship, or good vs. evil.

g. Point of View: The perspective from which the story is told. It could be first-person (narrator is part of
the story), third-person limited (narrator knows only some things), or third-person omniscient (narrator
knows everything).

h. Conflict: A central struggle or problem faced by the main character. This can be internal (within the
character) or external (with others, society, or nature).

i. Dialogue: The spoken words between characters, which help to develop the story and reveal more about
the characters.

j. Style and Tone: The author’s particular way of writing, which can vary in complexity, vocabulary, and
structure, and the emotional quality of the story.

for Example the novel from Andrea Hirata which is Laskar pelangi:

Narrative Form:Laskar Pelangi is written in easy-to-understand language. The story flows smoothly,
making it enjoyable for everyone.

Imaginary Elements:The story is based on real experiences, but the characters and events are made up.
The children face challenges that are similar to real life.

Plot:The plot follows ten children from a small village who want to get an education. Despite many
obstacles, the story shows their journey, friendships, and determination.
Characters:The characters are interesting. Ikal is the main narrator who tells the story. His friends, like
Lintang and Sahara, have different personalities, which adds depth to the story.

Setting:The setting is in Belitung, Indonesia, during the 1970s. The author describes the village, school,
and community clearly, so readers can imagine the place.

Theme:The main theme is the importance of education and following dreams. The story teaches that we
should keep trying even when things are hard.

Point of View:The story is told from Ikal’s point of view. This helps readers connect with his feelings and
thoughts throughout the story.

Conflict:The main conflict is the children’s struggle to get an education despite being poor and facing
many problems. This challenge makes the story more engaging.

Dialogue:The conversations between characters help show their relationships and personalities. Their
talks reveal their dreams and challenges.

Style and Tone:The writing style mixes humor and sadness. The tone is hopeful and uplifting, reflecting
the joys and struggles of childhood.

2. Kinds of prose fiction

a. Novel: A novel is a long fiction story that explores complex characters and plots. An example is Laskar
Pelangi by Andrea Hirata, which tells the inspiring story of a group of children fighting for education.

b. Short Story: A short story is a brief fiction narrative that focuses on one theme or event. An example is
Sungai Mengalir Lesu by Sapardi Djoko Damono, which contains touching short stories about life and
nature.

c. Novella:A novella is shorter than a novel but longer than a short story. It usually focuses on one
incident or character. An example is Bukan Cinta Biasa by Rintik Sedu, which explores the complexities
of love and relationships.

d. Fable:A fable is a short story that teaches a moral lesson, often with animals as characters. An example
is Kancil dan Buaya, which teaches about the cleverness of the mouse deer.

e. Fairy Tale : A fairy tale is a story with magical elements, usually for children, that often has adventures
and teaches lessons. An example is Snow White, which tells the story of a beautiful princess who is
chased by a wicked queen who is jealous of her.Snow White runs away and meets seven dwarfs who help
her. The evil queen tries to harm her many times, but in the end, Snow White is saved by a prince and
finds happiness.

f. Flash Fiction:Flash fiction is a very short story, usually under 1,000 words, focusing on one moment or
idea. Many contemporary Indonesian writers, like Tere Liye, experiment with flash fiction, often shared
on social media.
g. Historical Fiction:Historical fiction is a story set in a specific historical period, combining real events
and fictional characters. An example is Bumi Manusia by Pramoedya Ananta Toer, which explores
themes of love and social justice during colonial times.

h. Science Fiction:Science fiction explores futuristic concepts, advanced technology, and space
exploration. An example is Supernova by Dewi Lestari, which combines sci-fi elements with
philosophical questions about life.

i. Fantasy:Fantasy includes magical elements, mythical creatures, and imaginary worlds. An example is
Pangeran dari Timur by M. Taufiqurrahman, which creates a magical world and adventure.

j. Literary Fiction:Literary fiction focuses on character development and deep themes, not just on plot. An
example is Tenggelamnya Kapal Van der Wijck by Hamka, which explores emotional themes and the
complexities of love and culture.

3. Categories of literature in prose fiction

a. Genres: Classifications based on themes, such as romance, mystery, or horror.

b. Audience: Targeted readers, like children’s literature or adult fiction.

c. Style: Distinctive narrative techniques or approaches, like experimental prose or traditional storytelling.

BAB III

CLOSING
3.1 Conclusion

This paper has explored the multifaceted concept of literature, demonstrating its defining
characteristics and its enduring role in shaping human understanding and experience. From the
fundamental definition of literature as a form of artistic expression that utilizes language to create
meaning and evoke emotions, to the diverse range of genres that encompass poetry, drama, fiction, and
non-fiction, we have uncovered the vast and captivating landscape of this art form. We have also delved
into the specific characteristics, types, and categories of fictional prose, highlighting the unique features
of this genre and its ability to transport readers into imaginative worlds and explore the complexities of
human nature. Literature, in its various forms, continues to serve as a powerful tool for communication,
reflection, and understanding, connecting us to shared experiences, fostering empathy, and inspiring
critical thinking.

3.2 Suggestion

Further research could explore the evolving nature of literature in a rapidly changing digital age.
Examining how new technologies and platforms are influencing literary forms, reader engagement, and
the dissemination of literary works would provide valuable insights into the future of literature.

REFERENCES

Maharsi. (2012) The Study of English Literature. Jurnal of English and Education, 6(2).
Ahyar. (2019). Apa itu Sastra Jenis Jenis Karya Sastra Dan Bagaimanakah Cara Menulis Dan
Mengapresiasi Sastra. Yogyakarta. Deepublish Publisher

Ribo. (2019) Prose Fiction: An Introduction to The Semiotics of Narrative. Cambridge, UK. Open Book
Publisher