DIGITALIZATION OF CLASSICAL LITERARY HERITAGE: ACCESSIBILITY, PERCEPTION, AND INTERPRETATION BY THE NEW GENERATION

Abstract

The swift ascendance of digital technologies has ushered in a transformative era for the preservation and dissemination of classical literary heritage, presenting both unprecedented opportunities and formidable challenges. This study delves into the nuanced dynamics of digitalization within the realm of classical literature, focusing on three critical aspects: accessibility, perception, and interpretation by the new generation of readers. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study integrates quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to comprehensively explore the digital engagement with classical texts among a diverse demographic of readers. The findings illuminate a significant enhancement in the accessibility of classical works through digital platforms, albeit marked by disparities in genre representation and the fidelity of digital reproductions. Moreover, the research uncovers a complex landscape of reader perception, with digital formats fostering a new paradigm of engagement characterized by convenience and interactive exploration, yet sometimes hindered by technological limitations and the loss of tactile interaction. Pertinently, the study reveals a notable shift in the interpretation of classical texts, as digital mediums facilitate collaborative and dynamic interpretive practices among the new generation, diverging from traditional solitary reading experiences. These insights underscore the critical role of digital literacy in shaping the engagement with and understanding of classicalliterature in the digital age. The study’s discussion extends beyond the empirical findings to reflect on the broader implications for educators, librarians, and digital platform developers, advocating for strategic enhancements in digital literary ecosystems to enrich the reader’s experience. In conclusion, the digitalization of classical literary heritage represents a pivotal juncture, offering both challenges and opportunities to reinvigorate the legacy of classical texts for future generations, demanding a concerted effort to harmonize technological advancements with the pedagogical and cultural stewardship of our literary past.