In Harold Bloom's "The Western Canon," the author argues that the canon of Western literature is not merely a tool for supporting existing societal elites. Instead, it serves a broader purpose, inviting all readers, including those who will remain unfamiliar to us, to engage with profound artistic experiences. Bloom emphasizes that literature possesses a unique ability to convey aesthetic power.

This encounter with literature is framed as a means to connect with the "aesthetic dignity," a concept highlighted by Baudelaire and further examined by Erich Auerbach. Bloom advocates that the Western Canon is essential for enriching individuals' lives and facilitating a shared appreciation of the artistic achievements that define our cultural heritage.