Exploring the Relationship between Popular Culture and Literature: 5 Examples
Popular culture and literature have a complex relationship. While critics argue that popular culture is often devoid of literary merit, it cannot be denied that popular culture has had a significant influence on literature. In this article, we will explore this relationship through five examples.
Manga and Graphic Novels
Manga and graphic novels have become an increasingly popular form of literature in recent years. While some may argue that these works lack literary merit, they cannot be ignored as one of the most significant contributions of popular culture to literature. The graphic novel “Watchmen” by Alan Moore is a prime example of this. Set in an alternative universe where superheroes exist, Watchmen explores complex themes such as morality, politics, and power.
Fantasy
Fantasy is another genre that has been significantly impacted by popular culture. J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series is a prime example of this. The series not only became a pop culture phenomenon but also introduced countless children to the world of literature. The series explores themes such as good versus evil, love, and friendship, amongst others, and has become a classic in contemporary literature.
Youth Literature
Youth literature has been strongly influenced by popular culture, with the rise of young adult fiction in recent years. Suzanne Collins’ “The Hunger Games” trilogy is a classic example of this. The series, which explores themes such as political power and the effects of authoritarianism, became a pop culture phenomenon, with its film adaptation grossing over $2 billion. This shows the power that popular culture has in influencing literary trends.
Horror
Horror is a genre that has been transformed by popular culture. Stephen King’s “It” is an excellent example of this. The novel, which is now considered a classic in horror literature, explores themes such as trauma, fear, and the nature of evil. The novel’s television and film adaptations remain wildly popular and demonstrate the power of popular culture in shaping literary trends.
Science Fiction
Science Fiction is another genre that has been significantly impacted by popular culture. “Star Wars” is a prime example of this. The franchise, which has become a pop culture phenomenon, has had a significant influence on the genre’s development. The franchise explores themes such as good versus evil, political power, and the nature of humanity, amongst others, and has become one of the most significant contributions of popular culture to science fiction literature.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is evident that popular culture has had a massive impact on literature. Through the five examples explored, we see the power of popular culture in shaping contemporary literary trends. While critics may argue that popular culture lacks literary merit, it cannot be denied that it has played a vital role in introducing countless readers to the world of literature. It is interesting to see the ways in which popular culture and literature continue to interact and shape one another.
