How to start reading classic literature
The written word is one of the most powerful forms of expression. Classic literature written many years ago still has the power to educate and inspire people. Many people find it difficult to read the classics. In fact，reading the classics can be a pleasurable experience especially as you mature and develop a deeper understanding of the world.
★Read for enjoyment. Classic literature should be read for enjoyment as well as education. Look for the works by authors you're familiar with through movies or TV. Choose the type of classic literature that you enjoy reading from past experience.
★Keep a dictionary on hand. Use the Oxford English Dictionary as a reference for unfamiliar words or to define words that have changed in meaning over time. Start slowly and work on reading 30 minutes a day to get into the habit.
★Get to read its biographical information. This is because it relates to the setting of the story and author. To have a better understanding of the story，find out more about the time period in which a work was created and the background of its author.
★Do research on the Internet. Large numbers of websites，like Bibliomania，provide information for the study and exploration of classic literature.
★Understand story structure. Classic literature often contains complex plots and extensive character development. Focus on reading for the overall theme or the meaning of the story，and take notes to recognize the basic elements of the story.
★Buy literature companions.Authoritative works such as the Oxford Companion to Classic Literature or the Norton Anthology of English Literature offer popular classic works of literature to get you started.
★Understand the use of footnotes in literature. Classic literature is often full of references to social and culture elements of the past. Footnotes may be used to explain these references and make the material easier to understand.
[阅读障碍词]
1．mature v． 成熟
2．define v. 使明确
3．overall adj. 总的，全体的
4．authoritative adj. 权威性的
5．footnote n. 脚注
