Viktor Shklovsky

Definition

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.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Shklovsky's essay 'Art as Technique' outlines his theory of defamiliarization, arguing that literature should make the familiar strange to provoke deeper thought.
2. He believed that the primary function of art is to provide new ways of seeing the world, which allows people to perceive reality more vividly.
3. Shklovsky was a prominent member of the OPOJAZ group, which was a collective of Russian Formalists dedicated to advancing literary theory during the 1920s.
4. His influence extends beyond literature into film and other forms of art, where defamiliarization continues to be relevant in creating innovative experiences.
5. Shklovsky's emphasis on form led to a greater appreciation of narrative techniques and styles that enhance a reader's engagement with texts.

Review Questions

• How does Shklovsky's concept of defamiliarization impact the way readers engage with literature?
  • Shklovsky's concept of defamiliarization encourages readers to interact with texts in a more active way by presenting familiar elements in new and unexpected forms. This technique disrupts habitual perceptions, prompting readers to reconsider their understanding of everyday experiences and narratives. As a result, literature becomes not just a source of entertainment but a means for deeper exploration and awareness.
• Evaluate the significance of Shklovsky's contributions to Russian Formalism and how they shaped modern literary theory.
  • Shklovsky's contributions to Russian Formalism were pivotal in establishing a focus on the structural aspects of literature rather than mere content. His ideas about defamiliarization have significantly influenced modern literary theory by prioritizing form, style, and technique as key components that shape meaning. This shift has allowed subsequent critics and theorists to explore how artistic choices affect reader engagement, leading to richer analyses of texts across various genres.
• Synthesize Shklovsky's theories with contemporary literary practices to propose how defamiliarization can be applied in today's literature.
  • Shklovsky's theories can be synthesized with contemporary literary practices by applying defamiliarization techniques in various genres, such as poetry, fiction, and even digital media. Modern authors can experiment with language, narrative structure, and perspective to challenge readers' expectations. For instance, incorporating fragmented narratives or unconventional storytelling methods can evoke emotional responses and create unique experiences that resonate with today's audience. By doing so, writers can continue to evoke fresh insights while engaging critically with societal norms and issues.

Related terms

Defamiliarization: A literary technique proposed by Shklovsky that involves presenting familiar objects or concepts in an unfamiliar way to challenge the reader's perceptions and stimulate new insights.

Russian Formalism:

A school of literary criticism that emerged in Russia in the early 20th century, which emphasized the formal elements of literature and the importance of the aesthetic experience over content.

Literary Device: Techniques used by writers to produce specific effects in their work, such as symbolism, imagery, and metaphor, which can enhance meaning and engage readers.