In Beloved, stories are a fundamental part of how the novel is constructed and they reveal meaning to both the characters and the reader. Denver is able to connect with her mom through the stories she is told, even when she isn't given that much detail. Later, Beloved is "fed" by the stories she is told. The way Beloved is constructed has the plot greatly advanced by each story that is told or flashback that is experienced. This construction especially highlights the importance of oral tradition is human society.
In a more general sense, stories and storytelling have a profound impact on one's psyche, and they are essential to having a healthy mind and healthy interactions with others. By telling each other stories, humans are able to build empathy, which contributes to a Benjaminian formation of identity. Building empathy in this way can also occur with written works. Studies have found a link between literary fiction and empathy. Our society needs to keep reading and telling stories, we won't be able to survive if we stop.
I really enjoyed reading this brief but informative post because it tied everything together so well! It left me wondering what would happen if Beloved wasn't told the stories. I think it's possible she wouldn't be nearly as human as we have come to see her as. She would likely seem even more peculiar and less real without the stimulation of the story telling. I think this fact also holds true for humans, because it's one of the main ways humans learn to connect and empathize with one another.
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