“Reading fiction is not only beneficial but indispensable for our cognitive and emotional development.” (Nikolajeva, 2014, pp.228). Using what you understand about Cognitive Criticism, in two to three paragraphs, interpret your understanding of how the reading of fiction is beneficial for both the cognitive and emotional development. Provide examples from professional experiences or from the reading resources in this unit to support your response.
‘Cognitive criticism also explores why and how we interact with fictional characters using the cognitive-affective concepts of theory of mind (the ability to understand the thoughts, intentions, and beliefs of others) and empathy (the ability to understand the emotions of others).’ (Zipes, 2015)
One clear example of this is given by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (2009) in her presentation when she says that the characters in her early works were white, blue-eyed, constantly talking about the weather and playing snowballs. This influence on her work came from books by British authors.
Initially, the life experience of a beginning reader is limited to the immediate environment and a limited group of people with set roles (Nikolajeva, 2014, pp.228). The diversity of possible worlds stimulates cognitive abilities to generalise and conceptualise based on concrete facts and experiences. The narrative dimension of fiction complicates the possible world not only in terms of plot, setting and constellation of characters, but also in terms of voice and perspective.
Therefore, a work of fiction with familiar and unfamiliar elements that create the structure of the narrative have primarily an educational role, because through stories and images it is easier to perceive the information presented. Situations in literature may be completely different from the life conditions of the listeners, but immersion in an imaginary world often evokes real emotions and feelings that create a new perception of reality.
References
Adichie, C. N. (2009, July). The danger of a single story. Www.ted.com. https://www.ted.com/talks/chimamanda_ngozi_adichie_the_danger_of_a_single_story?subtitle=en
Nikolajeva, M. (2014). Reading for learning: cognitive approaches to children's literature.
Zipes, J. (2015). cognitive criticism and fairy tales. [online] Oxford Reference. Available at: https://www.oxfordreference.com/abstract/10.1093/acref/9780199689828.001.0001/acref-9780199689828-e-942 [Accessed 2015].