On the Art of Reading, Introductory

Name: On the Art of Reading, Introductory
Author: Arthur Quiller-Couch

The book explores the art of reading and its significance in modern life. It argues that reading is a skill that requires practice and dedication to develop. The author emphasizes the importance of close reading, paying attention to language, imagery, and symbolism. He also discusses the role of imagination in reading, highlighting the need for readers to engage actively with the text. The book critiques the superficial approach to reading prevalent among many people, who read only for entertainment or to pass time. It advocates for a more thoughtful and analytical approach, where readers consider the historical context, cultural background, and literary devices used by the author. Throughout the book, the author draws on examples from literature to illustrate his points, demonstrating how close reading can reveal new insights and meanings in familiar texts. He also discusses the importance of reading widely and exploring different genres and styles to develop a deeper understanding of literature and its role in society. Ultimately, the book aims to inspire readers to approach their reading with greater care, attention, and enthusiasm, recognizing the value of reading as a means of personal growth, intellectual enrichment, and cultural engagement.

By Arthur Quiller-Couch · First published 1916 · Genre: Literary Criticism, Education, Philosophy · 11 chapters · 6,099 words

First lines

Wednesday, October 25, 1916.

In the third book of the Ethics, and in the second chapter, Aristotle, dealing with certain actions which, though bad in themselves, admit of pity and forgiveness because they were committed involuntarily, through ignorance, instances "the man who did not know a subject was forbidden, like Aeschylus with the Mysteries," and "the man who only meant to show how it worked, like the fellow who let off the catapult" (ἢ δειξαι βουλόμενος ἀφειναι, ὡς ὀ τὸν καταπέλτην).

What this Textopian page supports

On the Art of Reading, Introductory is listed on Textopian as an essay by Arthur Quiller-Couch, dated 1916 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Essay
Author: Arthur Quiller-Couch
Date: 1916 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Criticism, Education, Philosophy, Non-fiction, Essay
Length: 6,099 words
Structure: 11 chapters, 66 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for On the Art of Reading, Introductory by Arthur Quiller-Couch
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering On the Art of Reading, Introductory?
How does this essay by Arthur Quiller-Couch fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Criticism first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Literary Criticism — The work focuses on the analysis and interpretation of literature, discussing the art and practice of reading.
Education — It addresses the teaching and learning processes related to reading and understanding literature.
Philosophy — The text explores philosophical themes regarding knowledge, understanding, and the nature of literature.
Non-fiction — The work is a factual discourse on reading and literature rather than a fictional narrative.