Literature vs Fiction
Fiction and literature are often confused due to the similarity in their meanings and usage, but they do have a difference and cannot be used interchangeably. Literature can be considered an umbrella term under which fiction comes. Both words are nouns and have Latin and French origins.
What is Literature?
According to the Oxford dictionary, literature is “Written works, especially those considered of superior or lasting artistic merit.” Literature encompasses various literary forms, including poetry, prose, novels, plays, short stories, and essays. Fiction is a part of literature, but not all forms of literature are fiction. Literature can also be a specific course of study in universities and colleges.
What is Fiction?
The Oxford dictionary defines fiction as “Literature in the form of prose, especially novels that describe imaginary events and people.” Fiction is an imaginative work of writing and becomes a part of literature. While literature includes various literary forms, fiction refers to novels or short stories imagined by the author, such as fairy tales and folklore. Autobiographies and biographies are classified as non-fiction because they deal with real-life events. Universities and colleges may offer diplomas in creative writing, under which fiction falls.
Key Takeaways
- Literature is any creation in writing, while fiction is imaginative work of writing.
- Literature includes various literary forms, whereas fiction refers to novels or short stories imagined by the author.
- Fiction falls under the category of creative writing, and universities and colleges may offer diplomas in this field.
