Harold Bloom

Definition

Harold Bloom was an influential literary critic and theorist, known for his provocative ideas about the nature of literature, authorship, and the canon. He gained prominence for his discussions on the relationship between literature and culture, particularly through his concept of the 'anxiety of influence,' which posits that writers are often shaped by their predecessors' works, creating a complex interplay of inspiration and rivalry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bloom's 'Anxiety of Influence' suggests that writers often feel pressured to differentiate their work from those who came before them, leading to a struggle for originality.
2. He argued for the importance of the Western Canon, emphasizing that certain texts have shaped Western thought and culture significantly.
3. Bloom was critical of contemporary literary theories that he felt diminished the value of great literature, advocating instead for a return to reading and appreciating the classics.
4. His work often engaged with themes of existentialism and the role of the individual in confronting their literary heritage.
5. Bloom's ideas continue to influence debates in literary studies, particularly regarding what constitutes 'great' literature and how we evaluate texts in relation to one another.

Review Questions

• How does Bloom's concept of the 'Anxiety of Influence' enhance our understanding of how authors interact with their predecessors?
  • Bloom's concept of the 'Anxiety of Influence' illustrates how authors are often influenced by previous works while simultaneously striving for originality. This creates a dynamic where new writers grapple with the legacy left by their predecessors, which can inspire creativity but also cause tension. Understanding this anxiety helps us appreciate the depth of literary creation and the ongoing dialogue between texts across time.
• Discuss the implications of Bloom's advocacy for the Western Canon in modern literary criticism.
  • Bloom's advocacy for the Western Canon suggests that certain texts possess enduring significance and offer foundational insights into human experience. His viewpoint challenges contemporary literary criticism that often emphasizes diversity over traditional criteria for greatness. By promoting a focus on canonical works, Bloom raises questions about the value of cultural heritage and how it shapes our understanding of literature today.
• Evaluate how Bloom's theories might reshape our approach to reading and interpreting works like James Joyce's 'Ulysses'.
  • Bloom's theories encourage readers to engage deeply with influential texts like 'Ulysses' by recognizing its place within the broader literary tradition. By applying his concepts, we can analyze how Joyce's writing interacts with and responds to earlier works, revealing layers of meaning that might otherwise go unnoticed. This approach not only enhances our interpretation but also enriches our appreciation of literature as an evolving conversation among writers across generations.

Related terms

Anxiety of Influence: A theory proposed by Bloom suggesting that writers are constantly influenced by previous authors, leading to a tension between their desire to create original work and the weight of their literary predecessors.

The Western Canon: A collection of literary works that Bloom argues should be considered essential reading for understanding Western literature, encompassing influential texts from various time periods.

Literary Canon: A set of texts or works that are widely recognized as being significant or essential within a particular literary tradition, often determined by critics, scholars, and educators.