Literary Theory
Literary Theory is a collection of analytical methods, frameworks, and concepts used to understand, interpret, and critique literature. It encompasses various schools of thought that have evolved over time, each offering different lenses through which literature can be examined.
History and Development
- Classical and Medieval Periods: Early forms of literary theory can be traced back to the works of ancient philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, who discussed the moral and educational purposes of literature. Aristotle's "Poetics" laid foundational ideas about drama and poetry.
- Renaissance to Enlightenment: During the Renaissance, critics like Sir Philip Sidney and John Dryden focused on literary forms and the role of literature in society. The Enlightenment period saw the rise of literary criticism as a formal discipline with figures like Samuel Johnson and Alexander Pope.
- 19th and 20th Centuries: This era marked significant diversification:
- Contemporary Theories: Recent developments include:
Key Concepts
- Text and Context: The relationship between the literary work (text) and the circumstances of its creation, reception, and interpretation (context).
- Intertextuality: The shaping of a text's meaning by other texts, as theorized by Julia Kristeva.
- Authorship: Theories like Death of the Author by Roland Barthes argue for the reader's role in creating meaning over the author's intent.
- Canon Formation: How certain works are selected to represent the literary canon and the implications of this selection.
External Resources
Related Topics