Final answer:
Classifying works as 'Commonwealth literature' emphasizes the author's nationality, potentially overshadowing the literary merit and universal themes of the work.
Step-by-step explanation:
One problem with classifying works as "Commonwealth literature" is that it places an emphasis on the c) Author's nationality of the literary work in question. The categorization implies a focus on where the author comes from rather than solely on the artistic merit, literary quality, or universal themes of the work itself. This can overshadow other elements of the work such as genre, language, and the inherent message or creativity of the piece.
Commonwealth literature often encompasses countries that were once part of the British Empire, but the diversity and complexity of these nations' cultures and experiences are vast. Labeling them under one umbrella can neglect this diversity and potentially limit the freedom of speech by reinforcing colonial power structures within literature. Therefore, classifying literature on the basis of author's nationality may prevent works from being evaluated and enjoyed for their artistic contribution to the broader landscape of world literature.
This issue echoes the broader problem with the canon of literature, whereby certain works are celebrated or marginalized due to factors unrelated to their literary value. Historical context, the portrayal of gender, race, and the environment, as well as adherence or resistance to genre norms, are all important considerations that literary scholars take into account when analyzing literature. These elements contribute to the endurance and impact of literary works within cultures and societies across time.