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New Criticism: A Critical Approach to Literature

Introduction

New Criticism is a literary theory that emerged in the early 20th century, primarily in the United States. It is characterized by a focus on the text itself, rather than the author's intentions or the historical context in which it was written. New Critics believed that the meaning of a text is not fixed or stable, but rather is created by the reader through their interpretation of the text.

Key Principles

  1. Formalism: New Critics believed that the form of a text is more important than its content. They focused on the structure, style, and language of the text, rather than its themes or messages.
  2. Autonomy of the Text: New Critics believed that a text is a self-contained unit, with its own internal logic and meaning. They rejected the idea that a text is influenced by external factors, such as the author's intentions or the historical context.
  3. Close Reading: New Critics believed that the best way to understand a text is through close reading, which involves a detailed and systematic analysis of the text's language, structure, and style.
  4. Imagery and Symbolism: New Critics believed that imagery and symbolism are key elements of a text's meaning. They believed that these elements can be used to create complex and nuanced meanings that are open to multiple interpretations.
  5. Irony and Ambiguity: New Critics believed that irony and ambiguity are essential features of a text's meaning. They believed that these elements can be used to create complex and nuanced meanings that are open to multiple interpretations.

Influential New Critics

  1. I.A. Richards: Richards was a British literary critic who is often credited with developing the principles of New Criticism. His book, "Principles of Literary Criticism," is considered a foundational text of the movement.
  2. William Empson: Empson was a British literary critic who is known for his work on imagery and symbolism. His book, "Seven Types of Ambiguity," is a classic of New Criticism.
  3. Cleanth Brooks: Brooks was an American literary critic who is known for his work on the poetry of T.S. Eliot and Robert Frost. His book, "The Well Wrought Urn," is a classic of New Criticism.
  4. Robert Penn Warren: Warren was an American literary critic and poet who is known for his work on the poetry of T.S. Eliot and Robert Frost. His book, "Understanding Poetry," is a classic of New Criticism.

Criticisms of New Criticism

  1. Overemphasis on Form: Some critics have argued that New Criticism's focus on form can lead to a neglect of the text's content and themes.
  2. Neglect of Historical Context: Some critics have argued that New Criticism's rejection of historical context can lead to a lack of understanding of the text's cultural and historical significance.
  3. Limited Scope: Some critics have argued that New Criticism's focus on poetry and fiction can lead to a neglect of other literary forms, such as drama and nonfiction.

Conclusion

New Criticism is a literary theory that emerged in the early 20th century. It is characterized by a focus on the text itself, rather than the author's intentions or the historical context in which it was written. New Critics believed that the meaning of a text is not fixed or stable, but rather is created by the reader through their interpretation of the text. While New Criticism has been influential in shaping literary theory and criticism, it has also been subject to criticisms and challenges.

References