Public domain literature

Public domain literature refers to written works that are no longer protected by copyright, allowing anyone to use, share, and adapt them freely. This typically happens when the copyright expires, which usually occurs many years after the creator's death, or in cases where the creator has explicitly dedicated their work to the public domain. Public domain materials include classic books, poems, and plays, making them accessible for educational purposes, adaptations, and creative projects without the need for permission or payment. Examples include works by Shakespeare, Mark Twain, and many folk tales.