Question

How is reading a work of literature related to your own personal beliefs and opinions?

Answer 1

Neither the author nor the reader should suspend their beliefs/opinions.
When reading a piece of literature, especially from history; it's important to view it subjectively. It was likely written in a time where different beliefs and opinions were valued. So the reader should read it for what it is, and decide for them self whether they agree with the author or not in modern terms.

So the answer is: When reading a work of literature by a famous author, it is crucial that you do not suspend your own beliefs and opinions.