Defamiliarization

Definition

Defamiliarization is a literary technique that seeks to make the familiar strange, compelling the reader to see common experiences in a new light. By disrupting the ordinary perception of everyday objects, situations, or feelings, this technique encourages deeper engagement and reflection, making readers more aware of their own assumptions and perceptions. It often plays a crucial role in creating a heightened sense of awareness in literature, prompting readers to question what they take for granted.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Defamiliarization is most commonly associated with Russian Formalism, particularly through the works of Viktor Shklovsky, who emphasized its importance in literature.
2. The technique encourages readers to reconsider their understanding of reality by presenting familiar objects or ideas in unexpected ways.
3. Defamiliarization can be achieved through various literary devices, including unusual descriptions, narrative shifts, and unconventional metaphors.
4. This approach serves as a critique of conventional storytelling methods, pushing against the norms of how we perceive and interpret literature.
5. The use of defamiliarization can lead to a transformative experience for readers, altering their perception of both the text and their everyday lives.

Review Questions

• How does defamiliarization alter a reader's understanding of familiar experiences?
  • Defamiliarization alters a reader's understanding by forcing them to view everyday experiences from a fresh perspective. This technique disrupts habitual thought patterns and assumptions, making common objects or situations appear strange or new. As readers engage with defamiliarized elements in literature, they become more aware of their preconceived notions and may develop a deeper appreciation for the complexity of ordinary life.
• Discuss the relationship between defamiliarization and the principles of Russian Formalism.
  • Defamiliarization is closely tied to the principles of Russian Formalism, which prioritizes the formal elements of literature over its content. The movement argued that literature should not merely reflect reality but should reshape it through artistic techniques. By employing defamiliarization, authors can challenge traditional narrative forms and engage readers on a more profound level, prompting them to question their perceptions and interact with the text in innovative ways.
• Evaluate the impact of defamiliarization on contemporary literature and its role in shaping reader perception.
  • Defamiliarization continues to have a significant impact on contemporary literature by encouraging authors to experiment with form and narrative structure. This technique fosters a critical engagement with texts and challenges readers to reconsider their responses to both literature and life. As writers adopt defamiliarization, they cultivate an environment where ordinary experiences can be viewed through fresh lenses, potentially leading to greater awareness of societal norms and individual biases. This ongoing evolution reflects the dynamic nature of literary theory and its relevance in understanding human experience.

Related terms

Russian Formalism: A movement in literary theory that emphasizes the formal aspects of literature, focusing on the techniques and structures used to create meaning rather than the content itself.

Literary Devices: Techniques employed by writers to produce specific effects in their writing, such as metaphor, simile, and imagery, all of which can enhance defamiliarization.

Estrangement Effect: A technique used in literature and theater that aims to distance the audience from emotional involvement with the characters or story, similar to defamiliarization.