Through The Lens of Literature: The Contribution of Literature to the Cultivation of Intercultural Empathy by Exploring the Other's Cultural Perspective to Bridge Distances

Abstract

The modern school of the 21st century is characterized by a pluralism in terms of student potential due to transformations at the social, political, cultural, national and global level. The coexistence of students from different cultural backgrounds is a challenge. Literature as a cultural product may contribute to the cultivation of intercultural empathy and acceptance of diversity, ameliorating interpersonal relationships. The present study examines how this can be achieved in the classroom, where group dynamics are constantly shaped through various processes. In the present study, ways of utilizing the literature are proposed regarding the treatment of issues related to identity, stereotypes, gender discrimination.