Harold Bloom

Definition

Harold Bloom was a prominent American literary critic, known for his influential theories on the Western canon and the role of anxiety in literary creation. His work often centered around the idea that great literature arises from the 'anxiety of influence,' a concept that suggests that writers are shaped and challenged by the works of their predecessors. This framework is particularly relevant when examining elements of tragedy in Shakespeare's plays, as Bloom's ideas can illuminate the complex interactions between characters and their historical literary influences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bloom published many influential books, including 'The Anxiety of Influence' and 'The Western Canon', shaping contemporary literary criticism.
2. He believed that Shakespeare was a foundational figure in the Western literary tradition and that his works exemplified the complexities of influence among writers.
3. Bloom's focus on individual authorship suggests that Shakespeare's tragedies reflect personal struggles and conflicts between original creation and inherited literary traditions.
4. His theories encourage readers to explore the underlying tensions in Shakespeare's tragic characters, who often grapple with their influences and legacies.
5. Bloom's work has sparked debates regarding the importance of the Western canon in modern education and its relevance to understanding literary history.

Review Questions

• How does Harold Bloom's concept of the 'anxiety of influence' help explain character development in Shakespearean tragedy?
  • Harold Bloom's 'anxiety of influence' suggests that writers are deeply affected by their predecessors, leading them to create characters who wrestle with this tension. In Shakespearean tragedy, characters often face internal conflicts stemming from their awareness of past influences, resulting in complex motivations and struggles. For instance, Hamlet's indecision can be seen as a reflection of his confrontation with the expectations set by earlier tragic figures.
• Discuss how Bloom's views on the Western canon relate to the enduring significance of Shakespeare's tragedies in contemporary literature.
  • Bloom argues for the importance of the Western canon as a lens through which to appreciate literary greatness, positioning Shakespeare at its core. The enduring significance of Shakespeare's tragedies lies in their exploration of universal themes such as power, betrayal, and existential despair. Bloom’s emphasis on these texts encourages readers and critics to consider how Shakespeare’s work continues to influence modern storytelling and character archetypes.
• Critically analyze how Harold Bloom's theories might challenge traditional interpretations of Shakespearean tragedy.
  • Harold Bloom's theories challenge traditional interpretations by focusing on the psychological and historical dimensions of literary creation. Instead of viewing Shakespearean tragedies merely as moral or philosophical statements, Bloom encourages an exploration of the tensions between authorship and influence. This perspective invites deeper analysis of character motivations and thematic complexity, suggesting that understanding these works involves recognizing the intricate web of influence that shapes both the writer's intentions and the audience's reception.

Related terms

Anxiety of Influence: A concept developed by Bloom that describes how writers are influenced by the works of their predecessors, often leading to a struggle to assert their own voice.

Western Canon: A term referring to a body of books, music, and art that is highly regarded in Western culture, which Bloom argues should be preserved and studied.

Literary Criticism: The study, evaluation, and interpretation of literature, encompassing various approaches, including historical, formalist, and psychological perspectives.