Being Literate in the Classics

One of my summer's in high school I set a goal to read all the books in a series of "classics" that my mom had. I did it too. This wasn't the first or the last time I've read classics that were not required of me.

Recently I have watched some movies that are considered cultural classics... as in I've heard them mentioned a lot. Partly, this is because I have a roommate that enjoys watching them, and enjoys introducing them to me, but part of it is I just find it interesting.

The thing is, I don't why I think it is so interestign to read and watch things that are considered classics. It isn't like I am always in the middle of cultural norms while they happen... in fact I'm far more likely to avoid them. But I guess I do find it fascinating to see what types of stories people hold onto and I guess I also like suddenly being in on the "inside jokes." I just like to be literate... even if there is no reason for it.