New Criticism is a school of literary theory and analysis that emerged in the early to mid-20th century, fundamentally changing the way we understand and interpret literature. This approach to literary criticism focuses on the text itself, disregarding external influences such as authorial intent or historical context.
The Origins of New Criticism
New Criticism, also known as the Formalist movement, took shape in the United States during the 1930s and 1940s. It was a reaction against the prevailing critical trends of the time, such as biographical and historical criticism, which often emphasized the author's personal experiences and the cultural context surrounding a work. New Critics believed that these external factors distracted from the true essence of a literary work - the text itself.
Core Principles of New Criticism
Close Reading: New Criticism places a strong emphasis on close reading, which involves a meticulous examination of the text's language, structure, and form. By closely analyzing the words on the page, New Critics aim to uncover the inherent complexities and ambiguities within the text.
Intentional Fallacy: New Critics rejected the idea that an author's intent is essential to understanding a work of literature. They argued that once a text is published, it exists independently of the author's intentions or biography. Thus, the reader's interpretation becomes paramount.
Affective Fallacy: Similarly, New Critics discouraged interpreting a text based on the emotional responses it elicits in readers. They believed that the meaning of a work should be derived from the text itself rather than personal emotional reactions.
Paradox and Ambiguity: New Critics appreciated the presence of paradoxes and ambiguity in literature. They believed that these elements encouraged deeper analysis and multiple interpretations, highlighting the richness of a text.
Key Figures of New Criticism
Cleanth Brooks: An influential figure in New Criticism, Cleanth Brooks co-authored the seminal book "Understanding Poetry" with Robert Penn Warren. In this book, they discussed the importance of close reading and formal analysis in understanding poetry.
Robert Penn Warren: Alongside Cleanth Brooks, Robert Penn Warren made significant contributions to New Criticism, particularly in their collaborative work. His essay "Pure and Impure Poetry" is a key piece in the New Critical canon.
John Crowe Ransom: A leading New Critic, Ransom was known for his essay "Criticism, Inc." In this piece, he articulated the principles of New Criticism, advocating for a focus on the text's internal qualities.
Legacy of New Criticism
While New Criticism enjoyed its peak influence during the mid-20th century, its legacy persists in contemporary literary studies. Some aspects of New Criticism, such as close reading and an emphasis on the text itself, remain fundamental to literary analysis today. However, it's important to note that New Criticism is not without its critics. Many argue that its disregard for authorial intent and historical context can limit the richness of interpretation and understanding.