What is New Criticism?New Criticism emphasizes close reading and analyzing the text itself, rather than considering historical context or author's intent.
Key Concepts
– Close Reading: Intensive analysis of the text’s language and structure.
– Textual Autonomy: The text is viewed as an independent entity.
Historical BackgroundDeveloped in the early 20th century, New Criticism emerged as a reaction against historical and biographical approaches.
Major Figures– I.A. Richards– T.S. Eliot– Cleanth Brooks
The Role of the ReaderReaders should focus on the text’s formal elements, such as its imagery, symbolism, and narrative structure.
Key Works– "The Well Wrought Urn" by Cleanth Brooks– "Practical Criticism" by I.A. Richards
Impact on Literary StudiesNew Criticism influenced how texts are analyzed, focusing on their intrinsic qualities rather than external factors.
Strengths– Encourages deep analysis.– Highlights the importance of language and form.
Criticisms– Overemphasis on text may ignore historical and social contexts.– Can be seen as overly rigid.