Final answer:
Prof. Rearick's statement that literature avoids confronting audience assumptions is false. True literature often engages in social reform and presents a complex interplay of themes. It evolves culturally as diverse voices are added and scholars and students reinterpret texts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assertion from Prof. Rearick that the most worthy works of literature tell their stories without confronting the audience's assumptions is false. True artistic endeavor often involves engaging in the gritty work of social reform, as evidenced by writers like Chopin, Jackson, Clinton, and Miller, who address societal issues head-on. Literature often reflects both the positive and negative aspects of society; it doesn't simply reinforce the status quo. Artists and writers not only represent but also help reshape culture through the transformative power of words.
Moreover, Virginia Woolf's notion that literature is becoming more inclusive by adding voices that were previously excluded suggests that confronting societal assumptions is necessary for progress. This challenges the previously held views within the literary canon. Hence, literature is a dynamic force that thrives on contribution from diverse backgrounds, broadening its scope and relevance.
Literature is more than just a collection of 'messages'; it is a complex interplay of themes and human experiences that evolve culturally through the creative process. As scholars and students engage with literary critiques and studies, they are actively participating in this evolution, bringing new interpretations and understanding to texts, beyond what the artists may have intended.