I think one of the greatest things about old books and literature is that while you can clearly see how language has evolved, you can also see that humanity changes very little.
I posted earlier about reading A Christmas Carol for the first time this year. First written in the 1800s. And I just realize how even now in 2023, I can’t think of anything more terrifying than a ghost taking me out of my house, just to force me into the homes of my acquaintances so I can hear how poorly they talk about me behind my back.
I think that’s something people will be able to relate to for centuries to come.
by tsh87
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One of the oldest ‘books’ we have is the ‘Epic of Gilgamesh,’ and he had a huge breakdown when his best friend / soulmate died.
*’What is this sleep which holds you now?
You are lost in the dark and cannot hear me.’*
ETA: It’s 4,000 years old. Yeah, we haven’t changed that much.
Hamlet’s biting sarcasm and petulance as a response to the world around him, as his coping mechanism while he’s drowning in his own emotional turmoil.