Literature Notes

Journeys and Quests

Two fundamental narratives in literature, involving a journey undertaken by a character or the arrival of a stranger.

Mimesis

The representation of reality in literature, as analyzed by Erich Auerbach.

Luminous Narrative

A type of narrative, exemplified by The Odyssey, where actions and motives are clear.

Obscure Narrative

A narrative, such as the story of Abraham and Isaac, where meanings are hidden and less transparent.

Quest Narrative

A recurring structure in literature that involves a hero, a journey, and a transformation.

Geographical Transformation

Involves significant shifts in location and exploration of unfamiliar environments in literature.

Ethical Transformation

A process where the hero's values and moral beliefs are tested and changed during their journey.

Existential Transformation

Centers on a character's changed understanding of their identity and purpose in the universe.

Autobiographical Project

A type of travel writing that uses a journey to understand and present oneself.

External Record

A travel writing form that documents the specifics of a culture or place.

Orientalism

A concept by Edward Said describing the distorted perceptions of Eastern cultures by Western writers.

Contact Zones

Social spaces where cultures meet, often characterized by power imbalances, as introduced by Mary Louise Pratt.

Kazuo Ishiguro

Author known for works like The Remains of the Day, exploring themes of memory and belonging.

John Steinbeck

American author known for capturing social issues and American identity in works like Travels With Charley.

Synecdoche

A figure of speech in which a part is used to represent the whole, often leading to generalization errors.

Elizabeth Bishop

Poet who examined the nature of travel and its impact through the lens of personal experience.

Robert Frost

Poet whose work 'The Road Not Taken' explores choices as a metaphor for life's journey.

George Orwell

Author known for his criticism of totalitarianism and exploration of societal issues through literature.

Audre Lorde

A poet and activist whose work often focused on themes of identity, feminism, and social justice.

Henry David Thoreau

Philosopher and writer known for his work on nature and the importance of walking in relation to freedom.

Walking as a Metaphor

Thoreau uses walking as a symbol of freedom, connection to nature, and personal exploration.