Literary Criticism

Description

This book offers a concise yet comprehensive exploration of the major developments in literary criticism from antiquity to the postmodern era. It traces how the interpretation and evaluation of literature have evolved, shaped by changing historical, philosophical, and cultural contexts. Beginning with early foundational ideas, the book examines how literature was first analyzed through concepts of morality, truth, and beauty. It then moves through the intellectual revival and stylistic refinement of later centuries, when literature was increasingly connected to questions of human nature, form, and artistic purpose. The rise of individual emotion, creativity, and imagination brought a dramatic shift in how literature was viewed, emphasizing personal expression and the inner life. As society changed, so did critical approaches, incorporating concerns with ethics, realism, and social responsibility. In the modern era, literary criticism became more diverse and interdisciplinary, engaging with politics, psychology, language, and ideology. New schools of thought emerged, challenging fixed meanings and highlighting the roles of power, identity, and unconscious desire in shaping texts. Throughout, the book presents complex theories in an accessible manner, making it an ideal resource for students, scholars, and readers interested in understanding the rich and dynamic history of literary criticism. It encourages deeper reflection on how we read, interpret, and find meaning in literature.