Why do teachers make us read old stories?

Stories like ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ ‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’ and ‘Jane Eyre’ are still relevant today.

By: Elisabeth Gruner, University of Richmond, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: April 12, 2026

Words: 887

Last Updated: 3 months, 2 weeks ago

By Elisabeth Gruner, University of Richmond

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.

Why do teachers make us read old stories? Nathan, 12, Chicago, Illinois

There are probably as many reasons to read old stories as there are teachers.

Old stories are sometimes strange. They display beliefs, values and ways of life that …

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