How to Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas C. Foster

Last updated: Jul 12, 2023

Summary of How to Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas C. Foster

How to Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas C. Foster is a comprehensive guide that aims to help readers understand and appreciate literature on a deeper level. Foster explores various literary techniques, symbols, themes, and patterns that are commonly found in literature, providing readers with the tools to analyze and interpret texts more effectively.

The book begins by discussing the importance of memory and the concept of intertextuality, emphasizing that literature is often influenced by and references other works. Foster encourages readers to be aware of these connections and to consider how they enhance the meaning and depth of a text.

Foster then delves into the significance of the quest narrative, a common motif in literature. He explains that quests are not limited to epic adventures but can also be found in more subtle forms, such as personal journeys or spiritual quests. By recognizing the quest narrative, readers can better understand the characters' motivations and the overall structure of a story.

The concept of symbolism is another key theme in the book. Foster explains that symbols are objects, actions, or characters that represent deeper meanings or ideas. He provides numerous examples of symbols in literature, such as the use of water to symbolize rebirth or the color white to represent purity. By identifying and analyzing symbols, readers can uncover hidden layers of meaning in a text.

Foster also explores the importance of geography and weather in literature. He explains that settings can often reflect or influence the characters and events in a story. Similarly, weather can be used to create atmosphere and convey emotions. By paying attention to these elements, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the story's themes and messages.

The book also delves into the significance of literary genres and archetypes. Foster explains that genres, such as romance or detective fiction, have certain conventions and expectations that can shape the meaning of a text. Additionally, archetypes, such as the hero or the trickster, are recurring character types that can be found across different works of literature. By recognizing these patterns, readers can better understand the author's intentions and the underlying themes of a text.

Foster also discusses the role of irony and ambiguity in literature. He explains that authors often use these techniques to challenge readers' assumptions and provoke deeper thought. By recognizing and analyzing irony and ambiguity, readers can uncover multiple layers of meaning and appreciate the complexity of a text.

Throughout the book, Foster provides numerous examples from a wide range of literary works, including novels, plays, and poems. He encourages readers to actively engage with the text, asking questions and making connections. By doing so, readers can develop their own interpretations and gain a richer appreciation for literature.

In conclusion, How to Read Literature Like a Professor is a comprehensive guide that equips readers with the tools to analyze and interpret literature more effectively. Foster explores various literary techniques, symbols, themes, and patterns, providing readers with the knowledge and skills to engage with texts on a deeper level. By applying the concepts discussed in the book, readers can enhance their understanding and appreciation of literature as a whole.

1. The Importance of Symbolism

In "How to Read Literature Like a Professor," Foster emphasizes the significance of symbolism in literature. He explains that authors often use symbols to convey deeper meanings and themes. By paying attention to recurring symbols or objects throughout a story, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the text.

For example, Foster discusses the symbolism of water in literature. Water can represent purification, rebirth, or even danger. By recognizing the presence of water in a story and analyzing its context, readers can uncover hidden meanings and themes that the author intended to convey.

2. The Role of Weather

Foster also explores the role of weather in literature. He explains that weather can be used to set the mood, reflect characters' emotions, or foreshadow events. By paying attention to the weather described in a story, readers can gain insight into the overall tone and themes.

For instance, Foster discusses how rain often symbolizes sadness or cleansing in literature. By recognizing the presence of rain in a story, readers can infer that the characters may be experiencing emotional turmoil or undergoing a transformative journey.

3. The Power of Irony

Foster highlights the importance of irony in literature. He explains that authors often use irony to create tension, reveal deeper truths, or challenge readers' expectations. By recognizing instances of irony in a story, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the author's intentions.

For example, Foster discusses situational irony, where the outcome of a situation is the opposite of what is expected. By identifying instances of situational irony in a story, readers can analyze the author's commentary on themes such as fate, human nature, or societal norms.

4. The Significance of Names

Foster explores the significance of names in literature. He explains that authors often choose names for their characters that have symbolic or thematic meaning. By analyzing the names of characters, readers can gain insight into their personalities, roles, or the overall themes of the story.

For instance, Foster discusses how authors may choose names that allude to historical figures or mythological characters to add depth to their characters. By recognizing these allusions, readers can better understand the author's intentions and the underlying themes of the story.

5. The Role of Mythology

Foster emphasizes the importance of mythology in literature. He explains that authors often draw upon mythological stories, characters, or themes to add depth and meaning to their own works. By recognizing these mythological references, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the text.

For example, Foster discusses how authors may use the archetype of the hero's journey, as seen in myths such as the Odyssey, to structure their own narratives. By recognizing this archetype, readers can analyze the protagonist's journey and the themes of self-discovery, transformation, or overcoming obstacles.

6. The Influence of Fairy Tales

Foster explores the influence of fairy tales in literature. He explains that authors often incorporate elements of fairy tales to convey deeper meanings or explore universal themes. By recognizing these fairy tale elements, readers can gain insight into the author's intentions and the underlying themes of the story.

For instance, Foster discusses how authors may use the motif of the "wicked stepmother" to explore themes of jealousy, power, or family dynamics. By recognizing this motif, readers can analyze the characters' relationships and the overall themes of the story.

7. The Importance of Intertextuality

Foster discusses the concept of intertextuality in literature. He explains that authors often reference or allude to other literary works to add depth and meaning to their own stories. By recognizing these intertextual references, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the text and the author's intentions.

For example, Foster discusses how authors may allude to Shakespearean plays to explore themes of love, betrayal, or power. By recognizing these allusions, readers can analyze the author's commentary on these themes and the overall meaning of the story.

8. The Role of Politics and Social Commentary

Foster explores the role of politics and social commentary in literature. He explains that authors often use their stories to critique or comment on societal issues, norms, or power structures. By analyzing the political and social aspects of a story, readers can gain insight into the author's intentions and the underlying themes.

For instance, Foster discusses how authors may use dystopian settings to critique political regimes or explore the consequences of societal control. By recognizing these political and social commentaries, readers can analyze the author's message and the themes of power, oppression, or resistance.