The Influence of Literary Theory on Literary Criticism

Literary criticism is the systematic analysis and evaluation of literary works, an essential component of literature studies and discourse. It involves interpreting and understanding the meanings and contexts of texts, guided by various critical perspectives and methodologies. At its core, literary theory serves as the framework or the lens through which literary critics examine and interpret these texts.

In this article, we will explore how literary theory influences literary criticism, using poetry as a prime example. I will delve into the distinctions between literary criticism and literary theory, provide a practical illustration, and highlight key literary theories such as feminism, deconstruction, and Marxism.

Understanding Literary Criticism and Theory

While literary criticism is focused on the practical analysis and evaluation of literary texts, literary theory provides the intellectual framework that underpins this analysis. Literary theory is a set of ideas, concepts, and methodologies that inform the interpretation of literature. These theories offer lenses through which critics can view and understand the complexities of a literary work.

To illustrate this, let’s consider Robert Browning's poetic masterpiece, “My Last Duchess.” In this poem, the speaker, likely a male noble, is telling a tale of a previous marriage and the betrayal he believes the first wife had committed. This poem presents a richly detailed narrative that can be examined through different critical lenses, each shedding light on various aspects of the text.

Literary Theory and Close Reading

Before applying a critical lens, a critic first performs a close reading of the text. Close reading involves carefully examining and analyzing the text in detail, considering elements such as the use of figurative language, imagery, and versification. For “My Last Duchess,” a close reading might focus on the intricate descriptions of the duchess and her features, the narrative structure, and the psychological insights revealed through the speaker's words.

Once the close reading is complete, the critic can then apply a theoretical framework. The choice of which theory to use largely depends on the critic’s interests and the specific themes they wish to explore. For instance, feminist theory might focus on the portrayal of the duchess and the representation of women in the text. Deconstruction could explore the instability of the text and the speaker's shifting perspectives. Marxist theory might analyze the social and economic context of the poem.

Key Literary Theories

Feminism

Feminist literary criticism seeks to analyze texts from a gender perspective, often examining the representation of women and exploring gender dynamics within literature. In “My Last Duchess,” feminist criticism might focus on the duchess's character and her marginalization. The duchess is depicted as a passive and objectified figure, conformity and submission being the themes that are sharply highlighted. Through a feminist lens, the critic might dissect the power dynamic and the toxicity of patriarchal expectations within the text.

Deconstruction

Deconstruction, pioneered by Jacques Derrida, challenges the idea of fixed meaning and explores the instability of language and text. Applying deconstruction to “My Last Duchess” would involve examining how the poem’s narrative and language evoke multiple and sometimes conflicting interpretations. This theory would likely focus on the speaker's use of language and the shifts in tone and perspective, questioning the stability of the text and the speaker's reliability.

Marxism

Marxist literary criticism analyzes texts within the context of class, economics, and power structures. In “My Last Duchess,” Marxist theory might examine the social and economic context of the poem and the class dynamics between the speaker and others. The poem’s themes of power, control, and ownership could be interpreted through a Marxist lens, highlighting the class-based tensions and the speaker's desire to exert control over his status and possessions.

Conclusion

Literary theory provides the critical tools that enable us to understand and interpret literary texts more deeply. While literary criticism is focused on the text itself, literary theory offers various lenses through which we can analyze and interpret the text’s various layers and nuances. Whether it is examining gender dynamics, questioning the language and narrative stability, or exploring class and power structures, different theories can provide a richer and more comprehensive understanding of a literary work.

Understanding and applying these theories can help literary critics gain a deeper appreciation of the complexities and multiple meanings of a text. Whether through feminism, deconstruction, or Marxism, these perspectives enrich our interpretation and appreciation of literature, making it a more dynamic and multifaceted field of study.