Merriam-Webster defines literature as written works (novels, plays, poems, stories) or anything...
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Transcript of Merriam-Webster defines literature as written works (novels, plays, poems, stories) or anything...
Literary Theories and
Criticisms
Merriam-Webster defines literature as written works (novels, plays, poems, stories) or anything written about a particular subject.
Text is defined as the original words of a writing or speech.◦ The books, magazines, newspaper articles, tweets,
and journal entries you read.◦ The movies and tv shows you watch.◦ The songs and radio you listen to.
What is literature? What is text?
The methods and ideas readers apply while reading literature and/or texts
Different ways of interpreting a text
Several theories exist and have been studied; however, we will talk about 6 of the most popular theories.
Definitions of literary theory
Based on the ideas and concepts of Karl Marx
According to Marxism, the moving force behind human history and its economic system.
Focuses on social class and economical differences
Where have you seen it before?
Marxist Theory
Based off the ideas of Sigmund Freud Unconscious vs. Subconscious Desires/Obsessions Defenses Id vs. Ego vs. Superego Oedipus vs. Electra complexes Analysis of character behavior and
motivation as it relates to the human psyche
Psychoanalytical Theory
Based off the ideas of Carl Jung – a student of Sigmund Freud
Jungian theory is one branch of psychoanalytical theory
There are a set of archetypes, patterns, molds.
How do characters fit into or compare to the archetype?
Read “Now, Where Have I Seen Her Before?”◦ Quiz over the reading
Jungian Theory
The Innocent The Orphan The Hero The Caregiver The Explorer The Rebel The Lover The Creator The Jester The Sage The Magician The Ruler
Jungian Archetypes
Cultural studies asks, “What happened, why did that happen?” and “What can we interpret about society from what happened?”
Focus on how interpretations reflect the time period and culture◦ Society’s trends
Frequently see author’s opinions and views on the time period, culture, or politics
Cultural Studies
Focuses on colonial powers and their influence on “lower” powers
Also examines race and ethnicity Question the literary canon
Post-Colonial Theory
Focus on the gender roles and stereotypes given by society
Sociology concepts are applied◦ Biology indicates sex, while culture indicates
gender Definitions of masculinity and femininity Examines ways that gender roles are
portrayed in literature Analyzes both sexes
Gender Studies
Focuses on the oppression of women◦ Political, social, economical, and psychological◦ Focuses specifically on women
Exclusion of women from the literary canon Specific branch of gender studies
Feminist Theory
Read “Hanseldee and Greteldum”◦ Quiz over the reading
If you’re interested, the Brothers Grimm original fairy tales are on my website.
Homework: