Lesson 5: Biographical, Historical, and Sociocultural Contexts

Question 1

−We can understand more about the poem by better understanding its
Biographical, Historical, and Sociocultural contexts.

Answer 1

Context

Question 2

Refers to the writer’s biographical details.
−We might be able to understand more about the poem if we know the author’s
background
−To further know about one’s biographical context:
−Research about the author
−Find out the things the author believes in
−See how the author’s beliefs are reflected on their works
−Check more of their works for pattern
−Analyze if the words or concepts relates to their life

Answer 2

Biographical Context

Question 3

• Refers to the time period where the poem was created.
  −Learning about history might give us more insight about the context of the
  literature
  −To further know about a poem’s Historical Context:
  −Read the poem carefully
  −Know what year it was written
  −Identify the significant events during that period
  −Search for words or concepts that reflects the time period
  −Compare the work to other works of the same period

Answer 3

Historical Context

Question 3

are statements that express general truths about human behavior such as
friendship or love

Answer 3

Maxims

Question 3

Refers to the social and cultural factors that influence the
creation and interpretation of poems
−Learning about sociocultural context of the writer might give us more insight
about the context of the literature
−To further know about Sociocultural Context:
−Identify if the poem address issues of gender, race, or class.
−Determine how the poem reflect the nation and its people.
−Know what the prevailing social norms in the time period was.
−Look for words, figures, or concepts that could reflect when the poem was written.
−Consider how culture affects your understanding.

Answer 3

Sociocultural Context

Question 4

s are statements that are considered universally applicable across
cultures, times, and situations such as the cycle of life.

Answer 4

Universal Truths

Question 5

• Authors use their beliefs or ideas, or philosophies, and incorporate them
  in their works. These includes topics such as life, nature, and journey.

Answer 5

Philosophies