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: