Formalism in art and literature focuses on the intrinsic qualities of works, emphasizing and over external factors. This approach emerged as a reaction to biographical and historical criticism, aiming to establish literary studies as a distinct academic discipline.
Formalists prioritize analyzing elements like plot structure, character development, and linguistic devices. They argue that form and content are inseparable, with form shaping meaning. techniques are central to formalist analysis, examining word choice, syntax, and to uncover layers of artistic complexity.
Origins of formalism
Formalism emerged as a reaction to biographical and historical approaches to literary criticism in the early 20th century
Emphasized the intrinsic qualities of literary works rather than external factors influencing their creation
Sought to establish literary studies as a distinct academic discipline with its own methodologies
Russian formalist school
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Developed in Russia between 1910 and 1930, led by scholars like and
Focused on the concept of "" which distinguishes literary language from ordinary language
Introduced key terms such as "" and "" to describe literary techniques
Analyzed how literary devices create aesthetic effects and shape readers' perceptions
New criticism movement
Emerged in the United States during the 1930s and 1940s, influenced by T.S. Eliot and I.A. Richards
Advocated for treating literary works as self-contained aesthetic objects
Rejected the intentional fallacy (relying on author's intentions) and affective fallacy (reader's emotional responses)
Popularized close reading as a primary method of textual analysis in academic settings
Key principles of formalism
Formalism prioritizes the study of literary works as autonomous aesthetic objects
Emphasizes the importance of form and structure in creating meaning and literary effect
Seeks to develop objective criteria for evaluating literary quality and significance
Focus on form vs content
Prioritizes how a work is constructed over what it says or represents
Analyzes elements such as plot structure, character development, and linguistic devices
Argues that form and content are inseparable, with form shaping and conveying meaning
Examines how formal elements create aesthetic effects and guide interpretation
Intrinsic vs extrinsic analysis
concentrates on elements within the text itself
Includes studying literary devices, , and language use
considers factors outside the text
Includes historical context, author biography, and cultural influences
Formalism favors intrinsic analysis to understand a work's literary qualities
Argues that external factors are less relevant to a work's artistic value
Close reading technique
Involves careful, detailed analysis of short passages or entire texts
Focuses on identifying and interpreting literary devices and formal elements
Examines word choice, syntax, imagery, and other linguistic features
Aims to uncover layers of meaning and artistic complexity within the text
Requires multiple readings and careful attention to textual details
Elements of literary form
Literary form encompasses the structural and stylistic elements that shape a work
Formalism examines how these elements contribute to the overall aesthetic effect
Understanding form helps readers appreciate the craftsmanship of literary works
Structure and organization
Analyzes the arrangement of plot elements and narrative progression
Examines patterns of repetition, contrast, and parallelism within the text
Studies the use of chapters, sections, or stanzas in organizing content
Considers how structure impacts pacing, tension, and reader engagement
Explores techniques like flashbacks, frame narratives, or non-linear storytelling
Imagery and symbolism
Investigates the use of sensory details to create vivid mental pictures
Examines recurring symbols and their significance within the work
Analyzes how imagery contributes to atmosphere and emotional impact
Studies the relationship between concrete images and abstract ideas
Explores the use of extended metaphors and allegory in creating meaning
Tone and mood
Analyzes the author's attitude towards the subject matter ()
Examines the overall emotional atmosphere of the work ()
Studies how diction, syntax, and imagery contribute to tone and mood
Considers the relationship between tone, mood, and thematic elements
Explores how shifts in tone or mood impact the reader's experience
Narrative perspective
Examines the point of view from which the story is told (first-person, third-person, omniscient)
Analyzes the reliability and limitations of the narrator
Studies how affects the reader's access to information
Considers the use of multiple narrators or shifting perspectives
Explores the relationship between narrative voice and characterization
Formalist approach to poetry
Formalism in poetry analysis focuses on the structural and linguistic elements that create poetic effects
Emphasizes the importance of form in shaping meaning and emotional impact
Examines how poetic devices contribute to the overall aesthetic experience
Meter and rhythm
Analyzes the patterns of stressed and unstressed syllables in poetry
Examines different metrical forms (iambic pentameter, trochaic tetrameter)
Studies how contribute to the poem's tone and mood
Considers variations in meter and their effects on pacing and emphasis
Explores the relationship between meter and content in creating meaning
Sound devices
Investigates the use of alliteration, assonance, and consonance
Examines rhyme schemes and their impact on structure and memorability
Studies onomatopoeia and how it enhances sensory imagery
Considers the use of repetition and refrain for emphasis and musicality
Explores how contribute to the overall auditory experience of the poem
Figurative language
Analyzes the use of metaphors, similes, and personification
Examines how creates complex meanings and associations
Studies the relationship between literal and figurative elements in poetry
Considers the use of paradox and oxymoron to express complex ideas
Explores how figurative language contributes to the poem's imagery and emotional impact
Formalism in visual arts
Formalism in visual arts focuses on the aesthetic qualities of artworks rather than their representational content
Emphasizes the importance of visual elements and principles of design in creating artistic effects
Analyzes how formal elements contribute to the overall and viewer experience
Composition and balance
Examines the arrangement of visual elements within the artwork
Analyzes the use of symmetry, asymmetry, and dynamic balance
Studies the creation of focal points and visual hierarchy
Considers the use of negative space and its impact on composition
Explores how composition guides the viewer's eye and creates visual interest
Color theory
Investigates the use of color harmonies and contrasts
Examines the psychological and emotional effects of different colors
Studies the relationship between color and spatial perception
Considers the use of color to create depth, mood, and atmosphere
Explores how color choices contribute to the overall visual impact of the artwork
Line and shape
Analyzes the use of different types of lines (straight, curved, implied)
Examines how lines create movement, direction, and rhythm
Studies the relationship between geometric and organic shapes
Considers how shapes contribute to the overall structure of the composition
Explores the use of positive and negative shapes in creating visual interest
Critiques of formalism
Formalism has faced criticism for its limitations and potential oversights in literary analysis
Critics argue that formalism's narrow focus may neglect important contextual factors
Debates surrounding formalism have contributed to the development of alternative critical approaches
Limitations of text-centric analysis
Overlooks the role of reader interpretation and personal experiences
May neglect the cultural and social significance of literary works
Risks reducing complex texts to a set of formal devices
Can lead to overemphasis on technical aspects at the expense of broader meanings
May struggle to account for experimental or avant-garde works that challenge traditional forms
Neglect of historical context
Ignores the influence of historical events and social conditions on literary production
May overlook how changing cultural contexts affect interpretation over time
Risks decontextualizing works from their original literary and social movements
Can lead to ahistorical readings that miss important cultural references
May fail to account for how literary forms evolve in response to historical changes
Subjectivity in interpretation
Challenges the formalist claim of objective analysis based on textual evidence
Argues that readers bring their own biases and experiences to interpretation
Questions the possibility of a single, definitive reading of a literary work
Highlights the role of cultural and personal factors in shaping interpretation
Suggests that formalist analysis may reflect the critic's subjective preferences
Influence on literary criticism
Formalism has had a significant impact on the development of literary criticism as a discipline
Its methods and principles continue to influence contemporary approaches to textual analysis
The legacy of formalism can be seen in various schools of literary theory and criticism
Impact on academic discourse
Established close reading as a fundamental skill in literary studies
Influenced the development of structuralism and other text-centered approaches
Contributed to the professionalization of literary criticism as an academic field
Shaped curricula and teaching methods in literature departments
Provided a framework for analyzing literary works across different genres and periods
Evolution of critical theories
Inspired reactions and counter-movements in literary theory (, New Historicism)
Influenced the development of narratology and discourse analysis
Contributed to the emergence of cognitive approaches to literature
Shaped debates about the nature of literary interpretation and meaning
Continues to be engaged with and critiqued by contemporary critical theories
Formalism across cultures
Formalist approaches to literature and art have varied across different cultural contexts
The application of formalist principles has been influenced by diverse literary traditions
Cross-cultural comparisons reveal both similarities and differences in formal analysis
Western vs non-Western approaches
Western formalism often emphasizes individual works and authorship
Non-Western approaches may focus more on collective traditions and oral literature
Differences in literary forms and genres across cultures impact formalist analysis
Some non-Western traditions prioritize different formal elements (rhythm, repetition)
Cross-cultural exchange has led to hybrid approaches combining Western and non-Western perspectives
Cultural variations in form
Different cultures have developed unique literary forms and conventions
Formal elements may carry different symbolic or cultural meanings across traditions
Some cultures emphasize performative aspects of literature more than textual analysis
Variations in linguistic structures impact the analysis of formal elements
Cultural attitudes towards innovation vs tradition influence the evolution of literary forms
Contemporary applications
Formalist principles continue to be applied and adapted in various fields of study
New media and technologies have expanded the scope of formal analysis
Contemporary applications often combine formalist approaches with other critical perspectives
Digital media analysis
Applies formalist principles to analyze the structure and design of websites and apps
Examines the formal elements of interactive narratives and digital storytelling
Studies the relationship between form and user experience in digital environments
Analyzes the visual and auditory elements of multimedia presentations
Explores how digital formats impact traditional literary forms and genres
Formalism in film studies
Analyzes formal elements of film (mise-en-scène, cinematography, editing)
Examines how film techniques create meaning and emotional impact
Studies the relationship between visual and narrative elements in film
Considers how formal choices contribute to genre conventions and innovations
Explores the evolution of film form in response to technological advancements
Formalism vs other critical theories
Formalism has both influenced and been challenged by other critical approaches
Comparing formalism to other theories highlights its unique focus and limitations
Understanding these relationships helps contextualize formalism within literary studies
Formalism vs structuralism
Both focus on internal textual elements rather than external contexts
Structuralism emphasizes underlying patterns and systems across texts
Formalism concentrates more on individual works and their unique qualities
Structuralism is more concerned with universal structures of language and narrative
Formalism tends to be more evaluative, while structuralism is more descriptive
Formalism vs reader-response theory
Formalism prioritizes the text itself, while reader-response focuses on the reader's experience
Reader-response theory emphasizes the role of individual interpretation
Formalism seeks objective criteria for analysis, reader-response acknowledges subjectivity
Reader-response considers how different readers may interpret the same formal elements
Formalism analyzes how texts guide interpretation, reader-response examines actual reader reactions
Key Terms to Review (29)
Aesthetic distance: Aesthetic distance refers to the gap between a viewer's or reader's emotional involvement with a work of art and their intellectual engagement with it. This concept plays a crucial role in understanding how art can evoke feelings while also prompting critical thought, allowing audiences to appreciate both the emotional and formal elements of a piece.
Artistic intent: Artistic intent refers to the purpose or motivation behind an artist's work, encompassing their creative vision, message, and the emotions they wish to convey. Understanding artistic intent is crucial for interpreting and appreciating art, as it reveals the deeper meanings and context that inform a piece. This concept emphasizes that art is not just a visual or auditory experience, but also a communicative act where the artist seeks to engage with the audience on multiple levels.
Autonomy of the artwork: The autonomy of the artwork refers to the idea that a piece of art exists independently of external contexts such as politics, society, or history. This concept emphasizes that an artwork's value and meaning derive primarily from its intrinsic qualities, such as form, composition, and style, rather than from the circumstances surrounding its creation or reception. This notion plays a vital role in formalist criticism, which focuses on analyzing the formal elements of art without considering outside influences.
Close reading: Close reading is a critical approach that emphasizes careful and detailed analysis of a text, focusing on its language, structure, and meaning. This method allows readers to uncover deeper layers of interpretation by paying attention to word choice, syntax, and stylistic elements. Close reading encourages an engagement with the text that reveals the complexities of its themes and ideas.
Color theory: Color theory is a framework that explains how colors interact and can be combined to create a harmonious visual experience. It involves understanding the color wheel, color relationships, and the emotional impact of color choices in art. By mastering color theory, artists can effectively convey mood, depth, and meaning in their work.
Composition: Composition refers to the arrangement of elements within a work of art, influencing how the viewer perceives and interacts with the piece. It encompasses aspects such as balance, contrast, unity, and emphasis, which work together to create a harmonious visual experience. Understanding composition is crucial for artists as it helps convey meaning and emotional responses effectively.
Defamiliarization: Defamiliarization is a literary technique that makes the familiar strange, encouraging readers to see common things in a new light. This method disrupts ordinary perceptions and compels individuals to engage more deeply with the text by recognizing the extraordinary aspects of everyday experiences. By altering the context of familiar elements, defamiliarization reveals deeper meanings and promotes critical thought.
Extrinsic analysis: Extrinsic analysis refers to the evaluation of a work of art or literature by considering external factors that influence its creation, meaning, and context. This approach looks beyond the intrinsic elements, such as form and structure, to include historical, cultural, and social contexts that may affect interpretation. By doing so, extrinsic analysis provides a richer understanding of a piece by exploring the influences surrounding its production and reception.
Figurative language: Figurative language refers to the use of words or expressions that convey meanings beyond their literal interpretation, often to create vivid imagery or convey complex ideas. This technique enhances writing by adding depth and resonance, making it an essential component in both literary works and persuasive essays. By using figurative language, writers can engage readers’ emotions and paint more detailed pictures in their minds.
Foregrounding: Foregrounding refers to the technique used in literature and art where certain elements are emphasized or made more prominent than others to draw attention and create meaning. This process highlights specific aspects of a work, making them stand out and encouraging the audience to engage more deeply with the text or artwork. By altering the expected norms of language or visual presentation, foregrounding challenges readers and viewers to reconsider their perceptions and interpretations.
Form: Form refers to the overall structure and organization of an artwork, encompassing its shape, volume, mass, and the way elements interact within a piece. It plays a crucial role in how art is perceived and interpreted, influencing the viewer's emotional and intellectual response. In sculpture, form is particularly important as it defines the physical presence and spatial relationships of the artwork, while in formalism, it emphasizes the aesthetic qualities and compositional elements of an artwork over its narrative or representational aspects.
Imagery: Imagery refers to the use of descriptive language that appeals to the senses, allowing readers to create mental pictures and experiences based on the text. This technique is essential in conveying emotions, setting moods, and enhancing themes within literature and art. Through vivid details and sensory language, imagery can evoke feelings and memories, making it a powerful tool in various forms of creative expression.
Interpretive community: An interpretive community is a group of people who share common values, beliefs, and practices that influence how they understand and interpret texts or artworks. This concept emphasizes that meaning is not solely derived from the text itself but is shaped by the experiences and perspectives of the community engaging with it. Interpretive communities highlight the social nature of interpretation, suggesting that context, culture, and shared knowledge play critical roles in the reading process.
Intrinsic analysis: Intrinsic analysis is a method of examining a work of art or literature by focusing on its formal elements, such as structure, style, and technique, rather than its historical context or external factors. This approach emphasizes the inherent qualities of the artwork, allowing for a deeper understanding of its meaning and significance based solely on its internal components.
Literariness: Literariness refers to the qualities that distinguish literary works from non-literary ones, focusing on the specific use of language, form, and style that create meaning beyond the literal. This concept emphasizes how elements like symbolism, metaphor, and narrative structure contribute to the aesthetic experience of literature, elevating it beyond mere communication of ideas. It invites readers to engage with texts in a deeper way, examining how the artistic choices made by authors shape interpretation and emotional response.
Metaphor: A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a direct comparison between two unrelated things, suggesting that one thing is another, thereby highlighting similarities between them. This tool enriches language by adding depth and meaning, enabling writers to convey complex ideas and emotions through vivid imagery. Metaphors are crucial in various forms of expression, allowing creators to engage readers’ imaginations and foster deeper understanding.
Meter and rhythm: Meter and rhythm are foundational concepts in poetry and literature that relate to the arrangement of sounds in a piece of writing. Meter refers to the structured pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of verse, creating a predictable cadence. Rhythm, on the other hand, is the overall flow and movement of language, which can be influenced by meter but also encompasses variations in pace and sound beyond strict patterns.
Mood: Mood refers to the emotional atmosphere or feeling evoked in the audience or reader by a piece of literature or art. It is created through various elements such as setting, tone, and imagery, influencing how the audience experiences the work. A strong mood can enhance the thematic depth of a work and make it more memorable.
Narrative perspective: Narrative perspective refers to the vantage point from which a story is told, influencing how events, characters, and emotions are presented to the audience. It shapes the reader's understanding and engagement with the text by determining the level of insight into characters' thoughts, the reliability of the narrator, and the overall tone. Different narrative perspectives can shift the reader's perception and connection to the story, creating varied experiences based on how much information is disclosed and from whose viewpoint it is filtered.
Narrative structure: Narrative structure refers to the framework that underpins a story, outlining how the plot unfolds and how various elements are arranged to create a cohesive whole. This includes components such as exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution, which together shape the reader's experience and understanding of the narrative. Understanding narrative structure is essential for analyzing how stories convey themes, develop characters, and engage audiences.
New Criticism: New Criticism is a formalist approach to literary analysis that emphasizes close reading and the text itself, rather than considering external factors like author intention or historical context. This method prioritizes the structure, language, and meaning contained within the text, viewing it as a self-contained object. New Criticism insists on analyzing elements like imagery, symbolism, and paradox, which can often lead to a deeper understanding of the work's intrinsic qualities.
Reader-response: Reader-response is a critical approach that emphasizes the role of the reader in interpreting and deriving meaning from a text. This perspective posits that the meaning of a literary work is not solely contained within the text itself but is created through the interaction between the reader and the text, highlighting personal experiences and emotions as integral to understanding. It encourages readers to engage actively, making their interpretations as valid as those of the author.
Roman Jakobson: Roman Jakobson was a Russian-American linguist and literary theorist known for his contributions to structuralism and semiotics. His work emphasized the significance of language in understanding literature and communication, highlighting how form and function interact in the creation of meaning.
Russian Formalism: Russian Formalism is a school of literary theory that emerged in the early 20th century, focusing on the formal elements of literature rather than its content or context. This movement emphasized the importance of structure, technique, and the distinct features of literary language, aiming to separate literature from other forms of art and everyday communication. By analyzing how narrative techniques, devices, and structures shape the meaning and experience of a text, Russian Formalism laid the groundwork for modern literary criticism.
Sound devices: Sound devices are literary techniques used to create auditory effects and enhance the meaning, emotion, and overall experience of a piece of writing. They include elements such as alliteration, assonance, rhyme, and onomatopoeia, which work together to evoke feelings or convey ideas through sound. These devices not only contribute to the rhythm and musicality of language but also play a crucial role in shaping how readers interpret and engage with the text.
Structure: Structure refers to the organized framework or arrangement of elements within a work of art or literature. This includes the way different components relate to one another, creating coherence and meaning. Understanding structure helps to analyze how various parts contribute to the overall message or aesthetic experience of the piece.
Tone: Tone refers to the emotional quality or attitude expressed by a writer or speaker through their choice of words, style, and perspective. It can convey feelings like happiness, sadness, anger, or irony, shaping how the audience perceives the message. Understanding tone is crucial because it influences interpretation and engagement with a text.
Unity of form and content: Unity of form and content refers to the harmonious relationship between the structure of a work of art or literature and its underlying themes or messages. This concept emphasizes that the way something is presented (the form) should align perfectly with what it seeks to communicate (the content), creating a cohesive and impactful experience for the audience.
Viktor Shklovsky: Viktor Shklovsky was a Russian writer and literary theorist known for his role in developing the concept of 'defamiliarization' and for being a key figure in the Russian Formalist movement. His theories emphasized the importance of form and technique in literature, arguing that art should disrupt conventional perceptions to enhance awareness and engagement with the work. This approach focused on how language and structure could transform ordinary experiences into something new and thought-provoking.