Literature and the New Culture Wars: Triggers, Cancel Culture, and the Teacher's Dilemma

The "culture wars" have led to a shrinking of school reading lists, making it difficult for teachers to choose which books to include. Deborah Appleman's book Literature and the New Culture Wars argues for a reacknowledgment of the intellectual and affective work that literature can do and offers ways to teach troubling texts without doing harm. She calls for a reasoned approach to determining what literature still deserves to be read and taught.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 07 October 2022
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

The "culture wars" of our time have significantly impacted the realm of secondary literature instruction. Due to a multitude of challenges posed by both political extremes, ranging from language and subject matter to potentially offensive content and authors who have faced cancellation, school reading lists are experiencing a rapid decline. For many educators, the task of selecting which books to include in their curriculum has become an agonizing endeavor, encompassing political, professional, and ethical considerations.

In her book, Literature and the New Culture Wars, Deborah Appleman advocates for a renewed appreciation of the intellectual and emotional impact that literature can have. She proposes strategies for teaching challenging texts without causing harm. Instead of removing these texts from classrooms, Appleman suggests that we should address and educate students about the controversies they raise. Her book serves as a timely and powerful argument for a rational approach to determining which literature remains worthy of being read, taught, and discussed.

Appleman's book highlights the importance of considering the broader societal context in which literature is produced and consumed. She argues that literature can be a powerful tool for promoting empathy, understanding, and social change, but only if it is approached with an open mind and a willingness to engage with complex and challenging ideas.

Furthermore, Appleman advocates for a more inclusive and diverse approach to literature instruction. She recognizes that not all students will have the same experiences or perspectives, and that it is essential to provide a range of texts that reflect the diversity of the human experience. This includes works by authors from different backgrounds, cultures, and genres, as well as those that challenge traditional narratives and power structures.

Appleman's book offers practical suggestions for educators who are navigating the challenges of the culture wars. She provides examples of effective teaching strategies that can help students engage with challenging texts without feeling threatened or marginalized. She also offers insights into the political and social implications of literature instruction, and how educators can use literature to promote social justice and equity.

In conclusion, Literature and the New Culture Wars is a thought-provoking and timely book that offers a valuable perspective on the current state of secondary literature instruction. Deborah Appleman's advocacy for a reasoned approach to determining what literature still deserves to be read and taught is a powerful argument for a more inclusive and diverse literary education. By promoting empathy, understanding, and social change, literature can be a powerful tool for building a more just and equitable society.

Weight: 245g
Dimension: 193 x 122 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781324019183