Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

literary-context

noun
/ˈlɪtəˌrɛr.i ˈkɒn.tɛkst/
Definition
The circumstances and background surrounding the creation of a literary work, which influence its meaning and interpretation.
Examples
  • The literary context of Shakespeare’s plays often includes the political and social climate of Elizabethan England.
  • Understanding the literary context can enhance the reader’s appreciation of the novel’s themes.
  • Many authors weave their personal experiences into the literary context of their works.
Meaning
Literary context refers to the various factors, including historical, social, and cultural elements, that shape the themes, characters, and plots in a piece of literature.
Synonyms
  • textual background
  • literary backdrop
  • contextual framework