The reading of all good books is like conversation with the finest (people) of the past centuries.

-Descartes

I favor the reading of classic books in education for many reasons.  Transcending time and culture, the impact of a powerful story will inspire and transform the reader and listener.  Compare that to textbooks that simply impart information with little required of the reader or listener other than to accept it without further thought.  Classics exemplify quality in storytelling and the beauty in the artistry of words.   Classics take the greatest ideas of humanity and apply them to the individual.  From these stories, a child can take away a sense of accomplishment and joy knowing they are capable of greatness themselves. 

1 )  Language Development

Language found in classic literature is rich and complex. This enables children to expand their vocabulary and develop strong language skills. If a child is regularly exposed to varied writing styles, sentence structures and literary techniques their own communication skills will naturally reflect this higher level. Of course, children’s reading and speaking skills will reflect what they hear and read.

2 )  Critical Thinking Skills

Because classics tackle complex themes, moral dilemmas and philosophical questions, children develop critical thinking skills through these challenging ideas. Children encounter various perspectives. And this stimulates their intellectual growth and helps them to become more thoughtful and discerning in their own lives.

3 )  Empathy and Understanding

Classic literature often explores the human condition, offering insights into the thoughts, emotions, and experiences of people from different times and cultures. Imagining themselves in the shoes of the character fosters an empathetic understanding of situations, struggles and places other than their own. This is leads to increased compassion and maturity of understanding that’s more outward focused rather than purely self-motivated.

4 )  Character Development

Through the classic novel, well-developed and complex characters undergo significant personal growth and transformation. Unlike textbooks, classics offer intricate and nuanced portrayals of individuals. Readers join the characters in their journey while facing moral dilemmas, contending with their flaws and undergoing person growth. By the end of this process, many times the reader will feel that his own character has been transformed through the lessons about the complexities of human nature, the consequences of choices and the importance of resilience and self-discovery.

5 )  Preparation for Advanced Studies

At higher levels of education, students may encounter classic literature. Reading classics throughout their childhood is the best preparation. Children can be introduced to Shakespeare plays at an early age through shortened and simplified versions. In the middle grades, a child could read cartoon-like versions of these same plays at a slightly higher level. Then in high school, this student will have the advantage of already understanding the storyline when reading the original text. The student will approach these more complicated works with great confidence.