IMAGO Interculturalité et Didactique
Volume 24, Numéro 2, Pages 110-120
2025-12-27

Perspectives On Using Literature To Promote Cultural Awareness And Empathy

Authors : Abdelalim Mohammed Taha .

Abstract

This study investigates effective pedagogical practices for teaching English literature in EFL contexts, exploring their possible impact on the learners’ cultural awareness and empathy. By examining various instructional strategies, the research aims to identify techniques that enhance student engagement and comprehension. In addition, the study explores how literature can foster a deeper understanding of different cultures, thereby promoting empathy among learners. The research also addresses the challenges faced by both teachers and students in EFL literature classrooms and suggests practical solutions to overcome these challenges. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and empirical analysis, this study provides valuable insights into optimizing English literature education in EFL settings, ultimately aiming to improve the holistic learning experience for both teachers and students. The findings indicate that instructional methods such as role-playing, group discussions, and the integration of multimodal resources considerably boost student engagement and understanding. Furthermore, the inclusion of diverse literary texts contributes to greater cultural awareness and empathy among students. Despite these benefits, obstacles like linguistic challenges and cultural gaps remain, necessitating strategies such as scaffolding and providing cultural context.

Keywords

cultural awareness ; empathy ; English literature ; teaching methods