Practical Criticism: 8 Notable Works

Practical Criticism, a literary analysis method developed by I.A. Richards in the 1920s, emphasizes close reading and detailed analysis of literary texts. This approach focuses on the text itself, rather than external factors like authorial intent or historical context.

Key Principles:

1. Close Reading: Carefully analyze the text’s language, structure, and literary devices.
2. Objective Analysis: Approach the text objectively, without preconceptions or biases.
3. Detailed Annotation: Annotate the text with detailed notes on literary devices, imagery, and other relevant features.
4. Collaborative Discussion: Engage in collaborative discussion with others to share insights and perspectives.

Steps for Practical Criticism:

1. Initial Reading: Read the text carefully, without annotation or analysis.
2. Detailed Annotation: Annotate the text with notes on literary devices, imagery, and other relevant features.
3. Analysis: Analyze the text’s structure, language, and literary devices.
4. Discussion: Engage in collaborative discussion with others to share insights and perspectives.
5. Re-reading: Re-read the text, considering new insights and perspectives.

Benefits:

1. Improved Understanding: It fosters a deeper understanding of literary texts.
2. Develops Critical Thinking: Encourages critical thinking and analytical skills.
3. Enhances Appreciation: Enhances appreciation for literary devices and techniques.
4. Collaborative Learning: Fosters collaborative learning and discussion.

Limitations:

1. Time-Consuming: It can be a time-consuming process.
2. Subjective Interpretation: Analysis may be influenced by personal biases.
3. Overemphasis on Text: May overlook external factors like historical context.

Notable works associated with Practical Criticism:

1. Practical Criticism: A Study of Literary Judgment (1929) by I.A. Richards – This book is considered the foundation of this theory.
2. Principles of Literary Criticism (1924) by I.A. Richards – This work lays out the theoretical basis for the theory.
3. The Meaning of Meaning (1923) by C.K. Ogden and I.A. Richards – This book explores the concept of meaning in language, relevant to Practical Criticism.
4. New Bearings in English Poetry (1932) by F.R. Leavis – This work applies Practical Criticism to the analysis of modern poetry.
5. Revaluation: Tradition and Development in English Poetry (1936) by F.R. Leavis – This book continues Leavis’ application of Practical Criticism to English poetry.
6. The Well Wrought Urn: Studies in the Structure of Poetry (1947) by Cleanth Brooks – This work exemplifies Practical Criticism in the analysis of poetry.
7. The Verbal Icon: Studies in the Meaning of Poetry (1954) by William K. Wimsatt – This book applies Practical Criticism to the analysis of poetry.
8. Understanding Poetry (1938) by Cleanth Brooks and Robert Penn Warren – This textbook introduces Practical Criticism to students.

These works showcase the development and application of this theory in literary analysis, demonstrating its influence on literary theory and criticism.

Notable magazines associated with Practical Criticism:

1. Scrutiny (1932-1953): Founded by F.R. Leavis, this magazine was a key platform.
2. The Cambridge Review (1879-1916): I.A. Richards and other Practical Critics contributed to this magazine.
3. The London Mercury (1919-1939): This magazine published works by Practical Critics like F.R. Leavis and William Empson.
4. The Criterion (1922-1939): Edited by T.S. Eliot, this magazine featured works by Practical Critics like I.A. Richards.
5. The Hudson Review (1948-present): Although not exclusively a Practical Criticism magazine, it has published works by critics associated with the movement.
6. The Kenyon Review (1939-present): This magazine has published works by Practical Critics like Cleanth Brooks and William K. Wimsatt.
7. The Sewanee Review (1892-present): This magazine has a long history of publishing works by Practical Critics.
8. The Yale Review (1911-present): This magazine has published works by Practical Critics like William K. Wimsatt.

These magazines played a significant role in disseminating Practical Critical ideas and providing a platform for critics to share their analyses and theories.

Conclusion:

It offers a valuable method for literary analysis, emphasizing close reading and detailed analysis. By following the steps and principles of this theory, readers can gain a deeper understanding of literary texts and develop critical thinking and analytical skills.

Read and learn more: New Criticism: A Critical Approach