Here's a breakdown of its key aspects:
1. Focus and Scope:
* What constitutes "literature"? Is it solely high-brow works, or does it encompass popular fiction, poetry, drama, and even non-fiction?
* What are the goals of literature? Is it to entertain, educate, inspire, critique society, or something else entirely?
2. Interpretation:
* How should literature be interpreted? Is there a "correct" reading, or are multiple interpretations valid?
* What factors influence the interpretation? Authorial intent, historical context, social context, reader response, or a combination of these?
3. Value and Evaluation:
* What criteria are used to judge the quality of literature? Is it based on aesthetic beauty, originality, moral message, impact on the reader, or something else?
* What is the role of the critic? Is their job to provide objective analysis or to promote a specific agenda?
Examples of Literary Orientations:
* Formalism: Emphasizes the form and structure of the text, focusing on elements like language, plot, character, and symbolism.
* Marxism: Examines the role of class, power, and economic structures in literature.
* Feminism: Analyzes gender roles, power dynamics, and representations of women in literature.
* Postmodernism: Challenges traditional notions of authorship, meaning, and truth in literature.
* Reader-Response Criticism: Focuses on the reader's individual experience and interpretation of a text.
Importance of Literary Orientations:
* They provide frameworks for understanding and analyzing literature.
* They help us engage with diverse perspectives on literature.
* They encourage critical thinking and informed discussions about texts.
While there is no single "correct" literary orientation, understanding them can enhance our appreciation for literature and the complexities of its meaning.