Abstract
In this article the tension in 20th century literary theory between absolutism and relativism is discussed. It is argued that, in spite of a movement from absolutism towards relativism, the age-old “absolute” values of truth, beauty and goodness have never been totally forsaken in the creation and the contemplation of literature. In an analysis of “Drought” by Jan Rabie, it is indicated how these values are implied and invoked in Rabie's short story. In conclusion, the fundamental value of love or charity is discussed, a value which contains and supersedes the values of truth, beauty and goodness, and reconciles the tension between absolutism and relativism.
Highlights
What is literature? And: W hat is the value o f literature? These are questions that keep nagging at the minds of the students o f literature
We see that many different answers have been given to questions about the nature and value o f literature, each answer apparently containing some truth
In the course o f this century, literary theory has developed from an absolutist to a more relativist view o f literature
Summary
These are questions that keep nagging at the minds of the students o f literature. : W hat is the value o f literature? Questions like these are always cropping up, because they can never be completely answered. In the following article I would like to present another incomplete and unsatisfactory answer to these questions about the nature and value o f literature. We see that many different answers have been given to questions about the nature and value o f literature, each answer apparently containing some truth. No simple and all-embracing answer can be given to these fundamental questions
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