Intertextuality

Definition

Intertextuality refers to the relationship between texts and how they influence and reference one another. It emphasizes that no text exists in isolation; instead, each text is shaped by its connections to other works through allusions, quotations, and thematic parallels. This concept is crucial for understanding how literary works respond to, reshape, or critique existing narratives within various literary circles and movements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Intertextuality gained significant traction in literary theory during the 20th century, largely due to the work of theorists like Julia Kristeva and Mikhail Bakhtin.
2. In transatlantic literary circles, authors often engaged with each other's works, creating dialogues across the Atlantic that enriched their narratives and themes.
3. Gothic poetry frequently incorporates intertextual elements, drawing from folklore, mythology, and other literary forms to build atmosphere and explore psychological themes.
4. The concept underscores that understanding a text may require recognizing its references to other texts, enhancing readers' interpretations and insights.
5. Intertextuality can lead to the creation of new meanings by juxtaposing different texts and revealing contrasting themes, allowing for a richer understanding of cultural contexts.

Review Questions

• How does intertextuality enhance the understanding of literary works within transatlantic literary circles?
  • Intertextuality enriches the understanding of literary works within transatlantic literary circles by highlighting the interconnectedness of texts across geographic boundaries. Authors often referenced each other's ideas and styles, creating a dialogue that reflects shared themes and cultural influences. This interaction not only deepens readers' interpretations but also shows how literature evolves through these cross-cultural exchanges, making it essential for grasping the nuances of both American and British literary traditions.
• Analyze how intertextuality manifests in Gothic poetry and its effects on theme development.
  • In Gothic poetry, intertextuality often manifests through allusions to folklore, classical literature, and earlier Gothic narratives. These references enhance the eerie atmosphere typical of the genre while also allowing poets to explore deeper psychological themes such as fear, madness, and the supernatural. By weaving these intertextual elements into their work, Gothic poets create a layered experience that invites readers to reflect on both the familiar tropes of the genre and the broader human experience.
• Evaluate the impact of intertextuality on literary innovation during the 18th and 19th centuries.
  • The impact of intertextuality on literary innovation during the 18th and 19th centuries was profound, as writers began to actively engage with existing texts to challenge conventions and create new genres. This practice led to a blending of styles and themes that fostered creative expression, particularly in movements such as Romanticism and Gothic literature. By referencing or reinterpreting previous works, authors not only honored their predecessors but also pushed boundaries that allowed for diverse narratives and fresh perspectives on human experiences.

Related terms

Allusion: A brief reference to a person, event, or work of literature that adds meaning to the text by drawing on the reader's familiarity with that reference.

Parody: A humorous or satirical imitation of a particular literary work or style, highlighting its characteristics by exaggeration or distortion.

Pastiche: A literary work that imitates the style of another work or genre, often as a tribute or celebration rather than as a critique.