New Criticism - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

New Criticism is a formalist approach to literary analysis that emphasizes close reading of the text itself, disregarding outside factors like the author's biography or historical context. It treats the literary work as a self-contained object, focusing on elements like imagery, symbolism, and structure. Think of it as examining a painting solely for its brushstrokes and colors, ignoring the artist's life. The goal is to understand how these elements work together to create meaning and effect. It’s all about what’s on the page.

Etymology

The term "New Criticism" emerged in the early 20th century, solidifying its name with John Crowe Ransom's 1941 book, 'The New Criticism.' It was a reaction against traditional literary scholarship, which often focused on historical or biographical details. The movement aimed to bring a more rigorous and objective approach to literary study. It sought to establish literary criticism as a distinct discipline, separate from history or biography.

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Examples

• "New Criticism encourages students to analyze poetry by focusing on its internal structure and language."
• "According to New Criticism, the meaning of a poem lies within the text itself, not in the author's intentions."
• "New Critics often analyze the use of metaphor and symbolism in a literary work."
• "The New Critical approach rejects biographical interpretations of literature."

Encouragement

New Criticism provides a valuable framework for understanding and appreciating literature. By focusing on the text itself, you can develop your analytical skills and gain a deeper understanding of how language creates meaning. Give it a try with your favorite book or poem! 📖

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