New Criticism is a literary theory that focuses on close reading and analysis of the text itself, rather than considering the author's intentions or historical context.
Who developed the concept of New Criticism?
New Criticism was developed by a group of critics known as the New Critics, including Cleanth Brooks and John Crowe Ransom.
What is the main focus of New Criticism?
The main focus of New Criticism is on the formal elements of the text, such as imagery, symbolism, and language.
What does New Criticism reject?
New Criticism rejects the use of external contexts, such as author's biography or historical background, in the analysis of a literary text.
Why is New Criticism considered a formalist approach?
New Criticism is considered a formalist approach because it emphasizes the intrinsic qualities of the text itself, rather than relying on external factors.
What is the purpose of New Criticism?
The purpose of New Criticism is to analyze and interpret literature based solely on the text, without considering subjective or external factors.
What are some key concepts in New Criticism?
Some key concepts in New Criticism include close reading, formal elements, ambiguity, and paradox.
How does New Criticism approach ambiguity in a text?
New Criticism sees ambiguity in a text as an intentional literary device that enhances the richness and complexity of the work.
What is the significance of New Criticism in literary analysis?
New Criticism revolutionized literary analysis by shifting the focus from external factors to the text itself, paving the way for subsequent formalist approaches.
How does New Criticism view the role of the reader?
New Criticism believes that the meaning of a text lies within the text itself and that the reader's interpretation should be based solely on the words on the page.