Meaning

Definition

In literary theory, meaning refers to the significance or interpretation of a text, encompassing the ideas, emotions, and messages conveyed through language. It involves the relationship between the text and its reader, as well as the cultural and historical contexts that influence how meaning is constructed and understood. The exploration of meaning is central to New Criticism, which emphasizes close reading and the intrinsic elements of a work without considering external factors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New Criticism asserts that meaning is derived from the text itself rather than from authorial intent or reader response.
2. Critics practicing New Criticism focus on how literary devices like imagery, symbolism, and irony contribute to the overall meaning of a work.
3. Meaning in literature can be layered and complex, allowing for different interpretations based on individual perspectives and cultural backgrounds.
4. The idea of 'the intentional fallacy' suggests that evaluating a text based on an author's intentions is flawed; instead, focus should be on the text itself.
5. New Critics believe that ambiguity in a text can lead to a richer understanding of its meaning, prompting readers to engage more deeply with the work.

Review Questions

• How does New Criticism approach the concept of meaning in literature compared to other literary theories?
  • New Criticism approaches meaning by asserting that it is embedded within the text itself rather than influenced by external factors like authorial intent or historical context. This contrasts with other theories that may prioritize the author's background or reader's interpretation. By focusing on elements like structure, imagery, and language within the text, New Critics aim to uncover deeper layers of meaning through close reading.
• Discuss how ambiguity in a literary work can enhance its meaning according to New Critical principles.
  • According to New Critical principles, ambiguity enriches a literary work by allowing for multiple interpretations and fostering deeper engagement from readers. This complexity encourages readers to analyze the text closely, considering various perspectives and nuances. New Critics argue that ambiguity invites readers to explore the interplay of themes and symbols, thereby deepening their understanding of the work's meaning.
• Evaluate the importance of textual unity in determining meaning within New Criticism and its implications for literary analysis.
  • Textual unity is crucial in New Criticism as it emphasizes that every part of a text contributes to its overall meaning. This perspective encourages critics to view literature holistically rather than dissecting it into isolated elements. The implications for literary analysis are significant; by understanding how different components interact, critics can uncover intricate meanings that might otherwise remain hidden when focusing solely on individual passages or themes.

Related terms

Close Reading:

A careful and detailed analysis of a text that focuses on the specific language, structure, and literary devices to uncover deeper meanings.

Textual Unity: The idea that a text should be viewed as a cohesive whole, where every element contributes to its overall meaning and significance.

Ambiguity: The presence of multiple interpretations or meanings within a text, which can enhance its richness but also complicate understanding.