ENG10 Q3 MODULE4

Lesson 1: Critiquing a Literary Selection - Formalist Approach

Introduction to Literary Critique

  • Adventure of Reading: Engages imagination, cultivates critical and creative thinking.

  • Benefits of Reading:

    • Builds vocabulary.

    • Strengthens the brain.

    • Reduces stress and depression symptoms.

    • Expands understanding of the world and values of life.

  • Literary Elements Learned:

    • Short story components: setting, character, plot, theme, point of view.

    • Literary devices: imagery, symbolism, figures of speech.

The Formalist Approach

  • Definition and Purpose:

    • Analyzes the structure and form of each individual element of a story.

    • Focuses solely on the text itself.

    • Utilizes close reading for deeper meaning analysis.

    • Values the work as a distinct art form.

  • Expectations: An excitement for exploring the inherent value of literary works.

Vocabulary Development

  • Key Terms:

    • Formalism: Derived from 'form'; emphasizes structure in literary analysis.

    • Literary Criticism: Evaluates, analyzes, describes, or interprets literary works.

    • Critique (verb): To evaluate; (noun): A detailed analysis of a literary piece.

    • Critic: An individual who analyzes and judges literature.

Elements of Formalist Criticism

  • Structure/Form:

    • Scrutinizes plot and conflict.

    • Analyzes how each part relates to the whole.

  • Key Components:

    • Character: Individuals or personified entities in the story.

    • Setting: Place, time, atmosphere.

    • Tone: Emotion conveyed through word choice, imagery, and narrator's voice.

    • Point of View:

      • First Person: Narrator is a character (uses 'I' or 'We').

      • Second Person: Instructs 'You'.

      • Third Person: Uses 'They', 'He', 'She', with potential omniscience.

    • Theme: The underlying message from the author.

    • Imagery: Descriptive language that appeals to senses.

Characteristics of a Formalist Literary Critic

  • Reading Style:

    • Careful reading to evaluate elements individually.

    • Seeks unity and aesthetic experience within text.

    • Avoids external influences such as author's biography or societal context.