Major :- 15
Name :- Mohinani Harshita pavanbhai
Year :- T.y B.a [ sem - 6 ]
Main subject :- English
Paper name :- Major :- 15 - Foundation of literary criticism
Assignment topic :- class assignment
• Definition and Scope - What is literary theory and criticism?
- Home assignment
•.concept of tragedy
:- Essay on How Social Media Affects Students’ Life
Teacher's name :- Shivani ma'am
★ class assignment :-
[ Definition and Scope - What is literary theory and criticism? ]
• Definition of Literary Theory and Criticism
Literary theory refers to a set of ideas, principles, and frameworks used to understand, interpret, and analyze literary texts. It provides different perspectives or lenses—such as formalism, feminism, Marxism, psychoanalysis—through which literature can be studied.
Literary criticism is the practical application of literary theory. It involves the evaluation, interpretation, and judgment of literary works to understand their meaning, structure, style, and value.
• Scope of Literary Theory and Criticism
The scope of literary theory and criticism is broad and multi-dimensional. It includes:
1. Interpretation of Texts
It helps readers understand deeper meanings in literary works by examining themes, symbols, imagery, and language.
2. Evaluation of Literary Works
Criticism assesses the artistic merit, originality, and effectiveness of a text.
3. Understanding Literary Forms and Genres
It studies different genres such as poetry, drama, fiction, and prose, and their distinctive features.
4. Historical and Cultural Context
Literary criticism connects literature with its social, political, historical, and cultural
background.
5. Author, Text, and Reader Relationship
Different theories focus on:
● the author (biographical criticism),
● the text itself (formalism, structuralism),
● or the reader (reader-response criticism).
6. Development of Critical Thinking
It sharpens analytical skills and encourages multiple interpretations rather than a single fixed
meaning.
7. Influence on Other Disciplines
Literary theory intersects with philosophy, psychology, sociology, gender studies, and cultural
studies.
• Conclusion
Literary theory and criticism deepen our understanding of literature by offering systematic methods of analysis and interpretation. They enrich reading by revealing layers of meaning and broadening perspectives.
📚 Importance of Literary Theory and Literary Criticism
Literary theory and literary criticism are very important in the study of literature. They do not just help us read a text, but they help us understand deeply, think critically, and connect literature with life and society.
1️⃣ Develops Critical Thinking Ability
Literary theory teaches us how to think deeply and analytically.
It helps students question the text instead of just accepting it.
It trains the mind to observe symbols, themes, language, and hidden meanings.
It improves reasoning and interpretation skills.
👉 Without theory, we read literature only at surface level.
2️⃣ Gives Multiple Perspectives
Different theories give different viewpoints.
For example:
Marxist theory looks at class struggle.
Feminist theory looks at gender inequality.
Psychoanalytic theory studies the human mind.
Because of this, one text can have many interpretations.
Example: In Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse**, we can study:
Spiritual growth (philosophical view)
Inner conflict (psychoanalytic view)
Social life and wealth (Marxist view)
3️⃣ Connects Literature with Society
Literature reflects society. Literary criticism helps us understand:
Social problems
Political conditions
Gender discrimination
Economic inequality
For example: Marxist criticism is based on the ideas of Karl Marx, which connect literature with class and capitalism.
Thus, literary theory makes literature socially meaningful.
4️⃣ Helps in Academic Research
For M.A., M.Phil., or Ph.D. students, literary theory is very important.
It provides research methodology.
It gives framework for writing dissertations.
It strengthens arguments with theoretical support.
Without theory, research becomes weak and opinion-based.
5️⃣ Encourages Deep Interpretation
Literary criticism helps us:
Understand symbolism
Study imagery and language
Analyze character psychology
Discover hidden meanings
For example: Psychoanalytic theory (influenced by Sigmund Freud) helps analyze unconscious desires and dreams in literature.
👉 It makes reading more intellectual and meaningful.
6️⃣ Enhances Appreciation of Literature
When we understand structure, theme, narrative style, and technique:
We appreciate the author’s creativity.
We recognize artistic beauty.
We understand the complexity of writing.
Thus, theory increases literary enjoyment.
7️⃣ Challenges Traditional Beliefs
Modern theories question old ideas.
For example:
Feminist theory challenges patriarchy.
Postcolonial theory questions colonial power.
Deconstruction (connected with Jacques Derrida) questions fixed meaning.
👉 It encourages independent thinking.
8️⃣ Makes Literature Dynamic
Literary theory keeps literature alive and relevant.
Because society changes, new theories develop.
Thus, literature is not static — it evolves with time.
9️⃣ Helps in Evaluation of Literary Works
Criticism helps in:
Judging quality of a text
Understanding strengths and weaknesses
Comparing works of different authors
It separates great literature from ordinary writing.
🔟 Builds Communication and Writing Skills
Studying literary criticism:
Improves academic writing
Strengthens argument building
Enhances clarity of expression
These skills are useful beyond literature also.
🎯 Overall Conclusion
The importance of literary theory and criticism lies in the fact that they:
Deepen understanding
Improve analytical ability
Connect literature with real life
Encourage multiple interpretations
Support academic research
Promote intellectual growth
👉 Literary theory gives direction.
👉 Literary criticism gives application.
Together, they make literature meaningful, powerful, and relevant in every age.
★ Home assignment
•.concept of tragedy - poetics by Aristotle
• Aristotle’s Poetics – Concept of Tragedy
Aristotle’s Poetics is a foundational text of literary criticism in which he defines and analyzes tragedy as the highest form of dramatic art.
• Definition of Tragedy According to Aristotle:
“Tragedy is the imitation of an action that is serious, complete, and of a certain magnitude; in language embellished; presented in the form of action, not narration; through pity and fear
effecting the proper catharsis of these emotions.”
Explanation of the Definition
1. Imitation (Mimesis)
Tragedy is an imitation of human action, not of people. It represents life, human behavior, and moral choices in an artistic form.
2. Serious Action
The action must be serious and meaningful, dealing with important issues such as fate, suffering, moral responsibility, and human limitations.
3. Complete and of Certain Magnitude
A tragic action must be whole and well-proportioned, having a beginning, middle, and end.
The magnitude should be neither too short nor too long, allowing emotional impact.
4. Language Embellished
The language of tragedy is elevated and artistic, including rhythm, harmony, and song, especially in the choral parts.
5. Dramatic Form
Tragedy is presented through action and dialogue, not narration.
6. Catharsis
The ultimate aim of tragedy is to arouse pity and fear and then purify or relieve these emotions in the audience.
• Six Elements of Tragedy
Aristotle identifies six constituent elements of tragedy, arranged in order of importance:
1. Plot (Mythos) – Most Important
● Plot is the soul of tragedy.
● It is the arrangement of incidents.
● A good plot should have unity of action.
● Events must follow the principle of probability and necessity.
• Important Parts of Plot:
Peripeteia (Reversal) – sudden change from good fortune to bad.
Anagnorisis (Recognition) – discovery or realization, often linked with reversal.
Catastrophe – final tragic outcome or downfall.
2. Character (Ethos)
Characters give life to the plot.
According to Aristotle, characters should be:
Good (morally purpose-driven )
Appropriate to their role
Lifelike
Consistent
Tragic Hero:
● A person of high status or noble birth.
● Neither perfectly virtuous nor evil.
● Suffers downfall due to hamartia (tragic flaw or error of judgment).
3. Thought (Dianoia)
Thought refers to the ideas, themes, and moral reasoning expressed in the play, often revealed through speeches and arguments.
4. Diction (Lexis)
Diction is the choice and arrangement of words. It should be appropriate, clear, and
elevated, enhancing the emotional and artistic effect.
5. Melody (Melos)
Melody includes musical elements such as the chorus, songs, and rhythm, contributing to emotional depth.
6. Spectacle (Opsis) – Least Important
Spectacle refers to visual aspects like scenery, costumes, and stage effects. Aristotle considers it the least artistic element because it depends more on stagecraft than poetry.
The Tragic Hero and Hamartia
The tragic hero:
● Is a respected and influential figure.
● Commits an error or makes a wrong decision (hamartia).
● Faces suffering that is disproportionate to the mistake.
● His fall evokes pity and fear in the audience.
Catharsis: Purpose of Tragedy
Catharsis means the emotional purification or purgation of pity and fear. By witnessing tragic suffering, the audience experiences these emotions and emerges emotionally balanced and
enlightened.
Unity of Action
Aristotle stresses unity of action, meaning:
The play should focus on a single main action.
All events must contribute directly to the central plot.
He does not insist strongly on unity of time and place.
Conclusion
Aristotle’s concept of tragedy in Poetics presents tragedy as a carefully structured art form designed to imitate serious human actions and evoke deep emotional responses. His emphasis on plot, tragic hero, hamartia, and catharsis has had a lasting influence on dramatic theory and literary criticism.
★ Essay
• How Social Media Affects Students’ Life
• Introduction
In the 21st century, social media has become one of the most powerful influences in students’ lives. From the moment they wake up to the time they go to bed, many students check their phones several times a day. Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Snapchat, and YouTube have changed the way students communicate, learn, and even think. Social media is no longer just a source of entertainment; it has become a part of daily routine. While it offers many advantages, it also creates serious challenges. Therefore, understanding its impact on students is very important.
Social Media as a Communication Tool
One of the biggest advantages of social media is easy communication. Students can instantly connect with friends, classmates, and teachers. Group chats help in sharing notes, assignments, and important announcements. During exams, students often help each other through online discussions.
Social media also helps students stay connected with relatives and friends who live far away. It builds relationships and reduces feelings of loneliness. For shy students, online communication sometimes feels easier than face-to-face conversations.
However, over-dependence on online communication can reduce real-life interaction. Students may feel uncomfortable speaking directly with people. This can weaken their confidence and social skills in real-world situations.
Impact on Education and Learning
Social media has changed the way students learn. Today, educational videos, online tutorials, and informative blogs are easily available. Students can learn new skills such as coding, cooking, designing, or even public speaking through online platforms.
Many teachers also use social media to share study materials and updates. It makes learning more flexible and accessible. Students can replay lessons, search for explanations, and clarify doubts instantly.
On the other hand, social media is one of the biggest sources of distraction. Notifications, reels, and trending videos easily divert attention. Students often plan to study for one hour but end up spending most of the time scrolling. This affects concentration, memory, and academic performance.
• Effect on Mental Health
One of the most serious impacts of social media is on mental health. Students are at an age where they are sensitive about their appearance, popularity, and success. Social media often shows unrealistic lifestyles and edited photos. When students compare themselves to others, they may feel insecure, jealous, or depressed.
The need for likes, comments, and followers creates pressure. Some students measure their self-worth based on online approval. If they do not receive enough attention, they may feel ignored or unimportant.
Cyberbullying is another major problem. Hurtful comments, trolling, and online harassment can deeply affect a student’s confidence and emotional well-being. In extreme cases, it may lead to anxiety and depression.
• Impact on Physical Health
Excessive use of social media also affects physical health. Long hours of screen time can cause eye strain, headaches, neck pain, and sleep problems. Many students stay awake late at night using their phones, which disturbs their sleep cycle.
Lack of physical activity is another concern. Instead of playing outdoor games or exercising, students prefer scrolling through their phones. This can lead to laziness, obesity, and reduced energy levels.
Influence on Personality and Behavior
Social media plays a big role in shaping students’ personalities. It influences their fashion choices, language, behavior, and opinions. Trends spread quickly, and students often feel pressure to follow them to fit in.
Sometimes, students create a fake image of themselves online to gain popularity. They may pretend to be someone they are not. Over time, this can create confusion about their real identity.
However, social media can also build confidence. Students who share their talents online—like singing, writing, dancing, or art—receive appreciation and encouragement. This motivates them to improve and explore career opportunities.
Time Management Issues
Time management is one of the biggest challenges related to social media use. Many students struggle to balance studies, family time, and online activities. Addiction to social media reduces productivity and focus.
Without discipline, students may waste hours every day. Over time, this habit can affect their goals and future plans. Learning to set limits and control usage is very important.
• Conclusion
In conclusion, social media has both positive and negative effects on students’ lives. It is a powerful tool for communication, learning, and creativity. At the same time, it can cause distraction, mental stress, health problems, and poor academic performance if misused.
Social media itself is neither good nor bad; it depends on how students use it. If used wisely and in moderation, it can become a valuable resource. But if used excessively without control, it can harm students’ development. Therefore, students must learn self-discipline and balance to make social media a helpful part of their lives rather than a harmful habit.
