4. NEW CRITICISM THEORY
Is a method that provides the reader with formula (or
away) for arriving at the correct interpretation of a text using only the text
itself. This method gives a reader an objective approach for discovering a text
meaning regardless of his/her level.
Core basic of the theory
a) Formalism; focuses on intrinsic (formal text) rather than extrinsic (historical
and biography)
b) Imperialism; appreciating the text for its beauty.
c) Naturalism; naturalist view of life that emphasizes the importance of scientific
thought in literary analysis.
How to become a formalist (new critic)
i.
Read a text many times, careful note the diction (word choice)
ii.
Search for images and symbols and relate them with each other.
iii.
Look for element of prosody such as rhyme, rhythm, stanzas, mater,
language and style.
Examine tone of
speaker(narrator), theme, setting, and point of view.
