New Criticism

Definition

New Criticism is a literary theory that emphasizes the close reading of texts, focusing on the work itself rather than external factors like authorial intent or historical context. It promotes analyzing the formal elements of literature, such as structure, imagery, and language, to uncover meaning and appreciate the artistry of the text. This approach aligns well with works that prioritize language and form, making it relevant in understanding various poetic forms and prose poetry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New Criticism emerged in the early to mid-20th century as a reaction against biographical and historical approaches to literature, advocating for a more objective analysis.
2. Key figures in New Criticism include John Crowe Ransom, Cleanth Brooks, and T.S. Eliot, who argued for interpreting texts based solely on their formal qualities.
3. The New Critical approach often involves examining paradoxes, ambiguities, and tensions within a text to reveal deeper meanings.
4. This method is particularly useful in analyzing poetry and prose poetry, where the precise use of language and structure can significantly influence interpretation.
5. New Criticism encourages readers to engage with a text independently of the author's background or intentions, fostering an appreciation for the art of literature itself.

Review Questions

• How does New Criticism change the way we interpret literary texts compared to other critical approaches?
  • New Criticism shifts the focus from external factors like authorial intent or historical context to a close examination of the text itself. By emphasizing formal elements such as structure and language, it encourages readers to find meaning within the text rather than relying on outside influences. This approach allows for a more objective analysis, fostering a deeper appreciation for the artistry present in literary works.
• Discuss how New Criticism can be applied to the works of Walt Whitman, particularly in understanding his use of language and structure.
  • Applying New Criticism to Walt Whitman's poetry reveals the intricate ways he uses language and structure to convey his themes. For instance, Whitman's free verse style breaks traditional poetic forms, which reflects his ideals of individuality and democracy. A close reading would analyze how his innovative use of enjambment and repetition creates rhythm and enhances emotional impact, showcasing how form contributes significantly to his overall message.
• Evaluate the impact of New Criticism on contemporary literary studies and its relevance in analyzing prose poetry today.
  • New Criticism has significantly influenced contemporary literary studies by promoting close reading as a fundamental analytical tool. Its focus on formal elements remains relevant in analyzing prose poetry, where the interplay of language and structure is crucial to understanding meaning. Despite facing criticism for neglecting historical context and reader response, New Criticism continues to encourage detailed textual analysis that enriches our appreciation of literature's craft.

Related terms

Close Reading: A careful and detailed analysis of a text, paying close attention to its language, structure, and meaning, often used in New Criticism.

Formalism: A literary movement that emphasizes the importance of a text's form over its content or context, closely related to New Criticism.

Imagery: Descriptive language that creates visual representations in the reader's mind; an important aspect in analyzing poetry and prose within New Criticism.