Why is it necessary for students to engage with intertextuality?

Engaging with intertextuality is essential for students because it deepens their understanding of various texts by showcasing how different works influence and connect with one another. This practice allows students to draw parallels, recognize references, and understand the cultural and historical contexts that shape the texts they read. By examining these relationships, students can appreciate the layers of meaning that enrich their interpretation, leading to a more nuanced and sophisticated grasp of literature. Recognizing intertextual connections can illuminate themes, character development, and stylistic choices in a way that a surface-level reading would not capture. This depth of analysis encourages critical thinking and promotes a more comprehensive engagement with the texts.