Classic Literature Literature Genre

Is it Classical or Classic? Usage Note that classic means ‘typical, excellent as an example, timeless,’ as in John Ford directed many classic Westerns, and classical means ‘relating to Greek or Roman antiquity,’ as in the museum was built in the classical style), but the study of Greek and Latin languages and their literatures is also referred to as the classics. So, what is a “classic” – in the context of books and literature?

A classic says something about the human condition - an expression of life, truth, beauty. A classic stands the test of time. A representation of the period in which it was written and merits lasting recognition. A classic has universal appeal. Themes of love, hate, death, life, and faith touch upon some of our most basic emotional responses. A classic is also elastic – elastic enough to make it suitable for modern interpretation.