Language, for native speakers, is a natural phenomenon beyond conscious effort
and is at the heart of human life and a unique characteristic of human beings. It
remains as a potentially communicative medium capable of expressing ideas, concepts, moods, feelings and attitudes. Learning any other language (L2), including English, is not easy. As English has come to stay as a global language, a language with universal acceptance and proficiency in English is synonymous with success in life, it has become necessary for students to master this language though it is a second language.
Language is said to be “the medium of literature as marble or bronze or clay are the materials of the sculptor” (Sapir, 2005). Literature, a versatile subject, is considered to be an essential part of a balanced education, and it has the power to shape the teaching practices. Literature and language are interrelated and a symbiotic relationship exists between the two. Literature plays a pivotal role in the acquisition of language proficiency. The present paper endeavors to highlight how literature acts as a vehicle in imparting communication skills and helping the teacher to lead the students for success instead of simply participating in the teaching/learning process. |