The Connection between Books and Culture
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• 23 Apr 2023

"Books are the means through which we can build bridges between different cultures."- Bharat Ratna Dr Radha Krishnan

Books have been a cornerstone of human culture for centuries, serving as a means of transmitting ideas, stories, and knowledge from generation to generation. From ancient manuscripts to modern novels, books provide a window into the beliefs, values, and traditions of different cultures. In this article, we will explore the connection between books and culture, and how they have influenced each other throughout history.

Books and Culture: An Overview

Culture is the shared values, beliefs, and practices defining a group. Books are an integral part of the culture, both as a reflection of it and as a means of shaping it. Books have been used to record history, mythology, and religious texts and have been instrumental in preserving languages and promoting literacy. Books have also served as a platform for dissent and social commentary, challenging cultural norms and sparking debates about important issues.

Throughout history, books have been used to spread ideas and influence culture. The printing press, invented in the 15th century, revolutionized the way books were produced and distributed. Suddenly, books were more widely available, making it easier for people to learn about other cultures and ideas. This led to the rise of the Enlightenment, a period of intellectual and cultural growth that gave birth to modern science and democracy.

The Connection Between Books and Culture

Books reflect the values and beliefs of the societies in which they were written. For example, medieval literature often featured themes of chivalry and courtly love, reflecting the values of the aristocracy. In contrast, the works of the Enlightenment challenged traditional authority and promoted the values of reason, science, and individualism.

Books also shape culture by influencing the way people think and act. For example, the works of Shakespeare have had a profound influence on the English language and culture. His plays have shaped the way we think about love, power, and tragedy, and his language has become a part of our everyday vocabulary. Similarly, the works of Jane Austen have influenced our ideas about romance and social class.

Books can also be a means of preserving culture. Many cultures have oral traditions, but these can be lost over time. Books allow cultures to record their stories, myths, and traditions, ensuring that they are not forgotten. For example, the Mayan civilization used a system of hieroglyphs to record their history, religion, and culture. When the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, they destroyed many of these books, but some survived, providing valuable insights into Mayan culture.

Most Influential Books of All Time

It is difficult to determine the most influential book of all time, as the impact of a book can be subjective and depend on various factors such as historical context and cultural relevance. However, there are several books that have had a significant impact on human history and continue to shape our world today.

One of the most influential books of all time is the Bible. It is the most widely read and translated book in the world and has been a source of inspiration, guidance, and comfort for billions of people over the centuries. The Bible contains the teachings of Christianity, the world's largest religion, and has influenced art, literature, and culture in countless ways.

Another influential book is the Quran, the sacred text of Islam. It is the primary source of Islamic law and contains teachings on faith, ethics, and social justice. The Quran has been a source of inspiration and guidance for millions of people and has shaped the Islamic world for over 1,400 years.

The Bhagavad Gita, a Hindu scripture, is also considered one of the most influential books of all time. It contains teachings on the nature of reality, karma, and dharma and has had a significant impact on Hindu philosophy and spirituality. The Bhagavad Gita has been translated into many languages and continues to inspire millions of people worldwide.

Other influential books include works of literature such as Shakespeare's plays and Homer's epics, which have had a significant impact on language and culture. Philosophical works such as Plato's Republic and Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics have also shaped Western thought and continue to be studied and debated by scholars.

Influential Books of Indian Culture

Furthermore, when discussing books and culture, we cannot overlook the mystical mythologies of Indian culture, such as the Mahabharata and Ramayana. These two texts are at the core of Indian culture. For centuries, they have had a significant impact on the lives of ordinary Indians. Why do we call someone who speaks the truth Harishchandra, one who serves their parents as Shravan Kumar, one who embodies dignity as Ram, and a mischievous child Krishna? Our entire culture revolves around these texts, and they continue to inspire us to this day.

The Discovery of India is another remarkable book written by India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, while he was in jail during the Indian freedom struggle in 1944. A TV program of the same name (inspired by this book) that aired on Doordarshan in the 1990s, and many of us might have seen it. By reading and watching this book, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of Indian culture. Nehru, a towering figure in Indian history, communicated the essence of his life and the heritage of his great country while incarcerated. In this book, Nehru eloquently describes India's rich culture, religion, and complex past, from the Indus Valley Civilization to India's independence, using a scientific point of view and a unique language style.

Books also Challenged Cultural Norms

Apart from serving as an account of history, books also offer an escape from the harsh reality of life. They allow us to step away from our everyday lives and immerse ourselves in different worlds, whether it's a fictional world or a historical period. They give us the opportunity to explore different cultures, experience different emotions, and see the world through someone else's eyes. In this way, books provide a form of escapism, which can be therapeutic for many people. They offer a way to relax and unwind, to forget about the stresses and pressures of daily life.

The wisdom and knowledge mentioned in books shaped a society’s culture and beliefs. Books helped society to maintain a system that worked for most people. But every now and then throughout history, there came a bread of people who did not like to get confined to the outdated rules and regulations of society and felt a need to change them. These are the people who challenged the norm and had the courage to lead society into new unexplored territory. Their experiences, struggles, and findings also reached us through the books and inspired us to think beyond usual.

Books and culture are intimately connected, with each shaping and influencing the other. They reflect the values and beliefs of the societies in which they were written, and they have played a crucial role in shaping culture throughout history. Whether preserving ancient traditions or challenging cultural norms, books have the power to influence the way we think and act. In a world where information is increasingly digital, books remain a vital part of our cultural heritage, and we must continue to value and cherish them.

Priyanka Todariya

Priyanka Todariya is a Public Administration post-graduate and an experienced communications professional who has extensively worked for several government entities like Ministry of Jal Shakti, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and state governments like Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat.

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