In today's world, many people are losing the sense of what a true and refined piece of literature truly is. It is rare to find someone who enjoys reading for pleasure. It is even rarer to find someone who enjoys reading the classics, such as Shakespearean works or prose written by Edgar Allan Poe. Some of the oldest tales have greatly influenced the world as we know it in many ways. Some famous figures in history who have had a positive impact on the world of literature are Aesop, Dante Alighieri, and Charles Dickens. Some might say that Aesop is famous for the life he led over 2,000 years ago and especially for the hundreds of fables that have since been attributed to his name. He is said to have been born into slavery, but was eventually freed by his master due to his literacy and intelligence. Not much is known about his life, such as where or when he was born. Because of this lack of knowledge many people, like Martin Luther, deny that he ever existed. Even with these doubts about its existence, Aesop's fables have reached the lives of many generations. We get the saying “survival of the fittest” from his short story The Oak and the Reeds. The use of primarily animal characters helps the story be more appealing to a younger audience. Being popular throughout the world, his tales still inspire many plays and films. His fables have had an impact not only on literature, but also on everyday life with morals woven into each tale. Another great man who is part of the vast world of literature is Dante Alighieri. Dante was born in Florence, Italy, in the year 1265. His mother died when he was seven years old. His father made his living by lending money and renting property. Dante married Gemma Donati in 1285, but his ideal and inspiring woman...... middle of paper...... of Christmas, and giving us a better understanding of the Victorian world. Literature over the centuries has been shaped and shaped by purchasing the works of such famous authors and poets. Aesop, Dante Alighieri, and Charles Dickens have all influenced the world of literature in one way or another. Many contemporary authors look to such illustrious writers for guidance and inspiration. While they have had a great impact on the literary world, they also influence many aspects of our lives. As with Aesop, he teaches us important lessons and morals through the use of animal protagonists. Dickens gives us a better look at the Victorian world and alters the way we celebrate Christmas. Dante, with his few but highly descriptive works on all things heaven and hell, offers us a likely glimpse into a world outside of our own. These writers are the world's most beautiful literatures.