When we talk about which works to share in Dialogic Literary Gatherings, ensuring high-quality readings is an essential principle. It is not just about reading for the sake of reading, but about offering students and the wider school community texts that allow for deep and transformative dialogue.
In this sense, works that have stood the test of time hold a central place, since these are precisely the ones that have addressed the great themes of humanity — love, freedom, injustice, fear, identity, or the meaning of life, for example.
These works have not only survived through history but have also inspired countless later creations. Literature, cinema, and contemporary series constantly draw from these narratives. Without knowledge of these original works, many current productions simply would not exist. Reading them today makes it possible to better understand the origins of many contemporary stories and, at the same time, to access a rich cultural heritage of enormous educational value.
Sharing these texts in Dialogic Literary Gatherings brings benefits that go far beyond quality reading. The egalitarian dialogue generated in these gatherings makes it possible for all voices to be heard and valued, regardless of participants’ academic level or age.
Through dialogic learning, students build knowledge, develop critical thinking, improve their communication skills, and learn to argue, listen, and respect diverse opinions.
In recent years, there has also been a renewed interest in universal literature through cinema and series. Adaptations of works like Wuthering Heights, The Odyssey, or Frankenstein have once again placed these stories at the center of cultural debate.
These audiovisual productions — inspired by books recognized worldwide — create new educational opportunities: they not only bring these creations to wider audiences (as long as their content is respected), but also make it possible to expand the format of gatherings to include film.
Article translated from Periódico Educación
Assistant Lecturer at the University of the Basque Country