What role does tea play in literature?

What role does tea play in literature?

Tea often symbolizes comfort, social interaction, and cultural identity in literature. For example, in 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland,' the Mad Hatter's tea party represents absurdity and the passage of time.

Can you give me more examples of tea in famous novels?

Certainly! In 'The Tale of Genji' by Murasaki Shikibu, tea ceremonies reflect the elegance of court life. In 'The Wind in the Willows,' tea is a symbol of friendship and leisure.

What about poetry? Is tea mentioned there too?

Yes, tea appears in poetry as well. For instance, T.S. Eliot references tea in 'The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock' to evoke a sense of domesticity and introspection.

How has the perception of tea changed in literature over time?

Historically, tea was often associated with high society and refinement, but modern literature sometimes critiques or subverts these notions, reflecting broader social changes.