July 27, 2023 - English Studies

Poetic Justice

The term “poetic justice” is a combination of two words: poetic and justice. The word “poetic” comes from the Latin word poeticus.

Etymology of Poetic Justice

The term “poetic justice” is a combination of two words: poetic and justice. The word “poetic” comes from the Latin word poeticus. It has its roots in the Greek term poietikos, which means “pertaining to poetry or creation.” “Justice,” on the other hand, comes from the Latin word justitia, stemming from the Latin adjective justus, meaning “righteous” or “fair.” It refers to the moral principle of fairness, righteousness, and the proper administration of law.

Meanings of Poetic Justice

Balance and Fairness: It signifies a just and equitable outcome that matches actions or qualities.
Moral and Ethical Resolution: It reflects the alignment of actions and consequences, emphasizing morality.

Ironic and Unexpected Twist: It incorporates irony and surprises in the outcome.
Symbolic and Aesthetic Resonance: It adds symbolism and artistic impact to the resolution.
Narrative Closure and Satisfaction: It provides closure and satisfaction to the audience.

Reinforcement of Social Order: It reinforces societal norms and promotes moral principles.
Artistic Expression and Creativity: Poetic justice showcases creative representation of justice.

Poetic Justice in Grammar

Grammatically, “poetic justice” is a noun phrase. It consists of the noun “justice” modified by the adjective “poetic.” The term does not function as a verb. However, the word “poeticize” is a verb that means “to make something poetic or give it a poetic quality.”

Definition of Poetic Justice

Poetic justice, as a literary device, means the attainment of a thematically fitting and morally satisfying outcome of a vice or a bad deed that aligns with the actions and qualities of characters in a narrative. It operates as a mechanism for rewarding virtue and punishing vice, enhancing the ethical dimensions of storytelling. Further use of literary devices or elements such as irony, symbolism, and unexpected turns, shows serving to reinforce cohesion, evoking emotional responses, and providing a sense of closure to the readers and audiences.

Types of Poetic Justice

There are several types of poetic justice in literature, including:

Type	Definition	Example in Literature
Rewarding Virtue	It involves the rewarding of virtuous characters or actions in a narrative, highlighting moral values upheld in the story.	In Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the transformation of Ebenezer Scrooge from a miserly and selfish person to a generous and compassionate individual demonstrates rewarding virtue.
Punishing Vice	It shows the punishment of characters or actions due to vices or immoral behavior, reinforcing the consequences of such actions.	In William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Macbeth’s ambition and treacherous acts ultimately lead to his downfall and demise, serving as a punishment for his wicked deeds.
Irony	It involves a contrast between what is expected and what actually happens, resulting in a surprising or unexpected twist that satisfies moral or thematic elements.	In O. Henry’s “The Gift of the Magi,” the ironic twist occurs when both characters sacrifice their most precious possessions, only to realize the futility of their actions but still find love.
Karma	It reflects the idea of “what goes around comes around,” where characters receive consequences or outcomes directly linked to their previous actions.	In Sophocles’ play Oedipus Rex, Oedipus unknowingly fulfills the prophecy of killing his father and marrying his mother, facing tragic consequences as a result of his own actions.
Role Reversal	It involves a reversal of fortune or power dynamics, where characters in positions of advantage or dominance face downfall, while the oppressed rise to victory.	In Mark Twain’s “The Prince and the Pauper,” the impoverished pauper who assumes the identity of a prince experiences a role reversal, gaining power and recognition, while the true prince faces hardship.
Cosmic Justice	It refers to a higher, divine force or destiny ensuring that characters receive outcomes they deserve, representing an inherent balance or order in the universe.	In Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart,” the narrator’s guilt manifests in his own unraveling and confession, suggesting a form of cosmic justice where his conscience becomes his tormentor.
Symbolic Resonance	It is achieved through the use of symbolism, where the outcome of a character’s actions carries deeper meaning or represents a broader thematic idea in the narrative.	In George Orwell’s Animal Farm, the pigs, who initially advocated for equality and justice, gradually adopt the same oppressive behavior as humans, symbolizing the corruption of power.
Moral Lesson	It aims to convey a moral lesson or ethical message, with the story’s resolution aligning with a particular value system, guiding readers’ understanding of right and wrong.	In Aesop’s fables, such as “The Tortoise and the Hare,” the moral lesson emphasizes the value of perseverance and humility, as the slow and steady tortoise wins the race against the overconfident hare.
Narrative Closure	It serves as a means of achieving closure by resolving conflicts, tying loose ends, and providing a satisfying conclusion aligning with the story’s underlying themes and principles.	In J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, the destruction of the One Ring and the return of peace to Middle-earth provide narrative closure, satisfying the quest for balance and defeating the forces of evil. It shows the use of poetic justice.
Emotional Impact	It aims to evoke emotional responses from readers, eliciting catharsis, satisfaction, or reflection on the complexities of human nature and the interplay of actions and consequences.	In Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, the trial of Tom Robinson evokes a range of emotions, highlighting the injustices of society and encouraging readers to reflect on racial prejudice and empathy.

Literary Examples of Poetic Justice

Type of Poetic Justice	Reference	Explanation
Punishing Vice	Hamlet by William Shakespeare	King Claudius, who commits regicide and marries his brother’s widow, is eventually killed by Hamlet, seeking revenge for his father’s murder.
Rewarding Virtue	The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas	Edmond Dantès, wrongly imprisoned, escapes and takes revenge on those who betrayed him, demonstrating the triumph of his resilience and virtue.
Punishing Vice	Great Expectations by Charles Dickens	Miss Havisham, who cruelly raises Estella to break men’s hearts, realizes her mistakes and faces a lonely and destitute existence as a consequence.
Punishing Vice	The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne	Hester Prynne, publicly shamed for adultery, and Arthur Dimmesdale, her lover and a minister, both suffer the consequences of their actions, with Dimmesdale ultimately succumbing to his guilt and dying.
Punishing Vice	Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky	Raskolnikov, the murderer tormented by guilt, confesses to the crime, leading to his imprisonment and eventual redemption, highlighting the punishment of his morally corrupt actions.
Punishing Vice	“The Odyssey” by Homer	The suitors, greedy and disrespectful, are slain by Penelope’s husband, Odysseus, upon his return, avenging their transgressions and restoring order and justice to his home.

These literary examples demonstrate how it plays a role in characters’ fates and the overall message of a work of literature.

How to Create Poetic Justice in a Fictional Work

To create it in a fictional work, here are some steps to consider:

Establish the moral code
Create flawed characters

Establish consequences
Use irony
Use symbolism

Ensure a satisfying resolution

In fact, creating poetic justice in a fictional work requires careful consideration of the characters’ actions, the consequences that result, and the overall message or moral of the story. By following these steps, you can create a compelling and impactful story that resonates with readers.

Benefits of Poetic Justice

Poetic justice can have several benefits in a work of literature, including:

Reinforcing moral values
Creating emotional impact
Developing characters

Engaging the reader
Delivering a message

In short, poetic justice could be a powerful tool for creating impact and resonance in a work of literature, helping to reinforce moral values, engage the reader, and create emotional impact.

Poetic Justice and Literary Theory

Poetic justice can be analyzed and understood through various literary theories, including:

Literary Theory	Critique of Poetic Justice	Example from Literature
Marxism	Poetic justice reinforces the status quo and fails to address systemic issues and social inequality.	In Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations, Miss Havisham’s ultimate redemption undermines social critique.
Postcolonialism	It perpetuates colonial ideologies and fails to challenge power dynamics in postcolonial contexts.	In Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness, Kurtz’s demise doesn’t challenge the broader imperialist narrative.
Feminism	It often promotes gender stereotypes and fails to address complex gender dynamics.	In Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre, Bertha’s death doesn’t challenge oppressive gender norms.
Deconstruction	It relies on binary oppositions and fails to recognize the inherent ambiguity of meaning.	In William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the downfall of Claudius doesn’t fully address the play’s complexities.
Queer Theory	Poetic justice often upholds heteronormative ideals and overlooks the diversity of queer experiences.	In Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray, Dorian’s punishment reinforces heteronormative moral standards.
Poststructuralism	It assumes stable and fixed identities, disregarding the fluidity of subjectivity.	In Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment, Raskolnikov’s punishment oversimplifies the nature of guilt.
New Historicism	It neglects historical context and fails to account for the complexities of societal norms.	In Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, Tom Robinson’s fate disregards the racial tensions of the time.
Psychoanalysis	Poetic justice oversimplifies psychological motivations and disregards the intricacies of the human psyche.	In Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, Heathcliff’s transformation lacks depth in understanding his psyche.

Genre Theory: Critics and Argument

Genre theory, a fundamental concept in literary and media studies, analyzes how texts are classified into distinct categories.

Introduction

Genre theory, or theory of genre, a fundamental concept in English Studies and literary theory, analyzes how texts are classified into distinct categories based on shared characteristics and conventions. To respond to question what is genre theory means to answer it what it provides. In fact, it provides a systematic framework to understand how genres function as communication tools, shaping audience expectations and responses. By identifying recurring patterns and structures within genres, scholars can explore the underlying cultural, social, and historical implications embedded within them. Furthermore, genre theory enables a nuanced examination of how creators draw on established conventions while also innovating, leading to the evolution of genres over time. Through its interdisciplinary approach, encompassing elements from linguistics, psychology, and sociology, genre theory serves as a valuable analytical lens for comprehending the role of genres in shaping both individual and collective cultural identities and practices.

Critics, Works and Arguments: Criticism Against Genre Theory

Critics:

Relevance in the Digital Age: Some critics argue genre theory struggles to adapt to the rapidly changing landscape of digital media and the proliferation of new media forms, which often defy traditional genre categorizations.
Overemphasis on Conventions: Certain scholars contend that genre theory places excessive emphasis on rigid conventions, potentially stifling creativity and innovation within artistic works.

Homogenization of Artistic Expression: Critics suggest that strict genre categorizations may lead to the homogenization of artistic expression, limiting the potential for cross-genre experimentation and boundary-breaking creations.
Inadequate Representation of Hybrid Genres: Genre theory has been challenged for its inability to effectively account for hybrid genres, which blend elements from multiple traditional genres, thus presenting difficulties in classifying such works accurately.
Cultural Relativity: Some argue that classification criteria of genre theory might be culturally biased, leading to a skewed understanding of genres from non-Western or marginalized cultural contexts.

Neglect of Individuality: Critics contend that its focus on shared characteristics overlooks the uniqueness and individuality of each work, potentially diminishing the significance of singular artistic accomplishments.
Limited Socio-Historical Context: Certain scholars point out that emphasis of this theory on formal features may overlook the rich socio-historical contexts that influence the emergence and development of genres over time.
Challenges in Defining Boundaries: Critics raise concerns about the difficulties in defining clear boundaries between genres, as some works may blur the lines between different categories, making definitive categorization problematic.

Dismissal of Genre Defying Works: Genre theory has been criticized for its tendency to dismiss or marginalize works that defy traditional genre classifications, as they may not neatly fit within established frameworks.

Works and Arguments Against Genre Theory:

Genre Trouble: Narrativism and the Art of Simulation by Marie-Laure Ryan: In this work, Ryan challenges the traditional understanding of genre and argues for a more dynamic and flexible approach that considers the narrative and ludic aspects of texts in shaping genres.
The Death of Genre by John Frow: Frow’s essay questions the relevance of genre theory in contemporary literary studies and suggests that genres are better understood as constantly evolving and contextual, rather than fixed and prescriptive categories.

Film Genre: From Iconography to Ideology by Barry Keith Grant: Grant offers a critical analysis of the limitations of genre theory in film studies and advocates for a more comprehensive examination of ideologies and cultural contexts in shaping film genres.

Examples of Genre Theory

Example	Critique
Poem: “The Waste Land” by T.S. Eliot	Applying genre theory to “The Waste Land” might limit its interpretation to traditional poetic genres, such as epic or modernist poetry. However, this approach overlooks the poem’s collage-like structure, blending various voices, languages, and historical references. By focusing solely on generic conventions, critics may fail to appreciate the poem’s exploration of fractured modernity and the disillusionment of the post-World War I era.
Play: “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead” by Tom Stoppard	Genre theory applied to “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead” could categorize it as a comedy or absurdist play due to its humorous elements and existential themes. However, such a classification might neglect the play’s profound engagement with Shakespearean tragedy and its meta-theatrical commentary on the nature of reality and the role of supporting characters. An exclusive focus on generic conventions might obscure the play’s layered philosophical insights.
Movie: “Inception” directed by Christopher Nolan	When subjecting “Inception” to genre theory in film, some critics might classify it solely as a science fiction or action film, given its dream-based narrative and action-packed sequences. However, such a categorization might overlook its psychological depth and thematic exploration of memory, guilt, and the nature of reality. The film’s genre-blending nature, incorporating elements of thriller and heist genres, challenges traditional classifications and necessitates a more nuanced analysis.
Novel: *Beloved* by Toni Morrison	Applying genre theory to “Beloved” might classify it as historical fiction or magical realism due to its setting during the post-Civil War era and the presence of supernatural elements. However, a narrow focus on generic labels may fail to capture the novel’s profound exploration of slavery’s legacy, trauma, and the power of maternal love. Morrison’s innovative narrative style and blending of genres demand a broader perspective in its critical analysis.
Short Stories: “The Things They Carried” by Tim O’Brien	Genre theory applied to the stories in “The Things They Carried” may label them as war stories or literary fiction due to their Vietnam War backdrop and the depth of character development. However, a rigid classification might overshadow the stories’ metafictional aspects, where O’Brien blurs the lines between fact and fiction, challenging the nature of storytelling and the reliability of memory. Appreciating these nuances requires looking beyond conventional genre distinctions.
Poetic Prose (e.g., “The Waves” by Virginia Woolf)	Categorizing “The Waves” strictly as a novel or prose poetry might obscure its innovative structure and poetic prose style. Woolf’s use of six interconnected monologues blurs the boundaries between novelistic form and poetic expression. A genre theory approach that solely relies on traditional labels may overlook the profound exploration of consciousness, subjectivity, and the passage of time present in the text.

Keywords in Genre Theory

Some keywords associated with genre theory include:

Genre: It is a distinct category or type of literary work characterized by shared conventions, themes, and stylistic features.

Conventions: It means recurring elements and techniques commonly found within a particular genre, contributing to its recognizable identity.
Hybridity: It means the blending of elements from multiple genres, resulting in works that defy easy categorization and challenge traditional genre boundaries.
Evolution: It is the dynamic and changing nature of genres over time, influenced by cultural shifts, societal changes, and artistic innovations.

Expectations: It means assumptions and anticipations formed by readers or audiences based on the conventions and patterns associated with a specific genre.
Canon: It means the established and widely recognized set of influential works within a specific genre, contributing to the shaping of literary traditions.
Intertextuality: It means the interconnectedness between different texts, genres, or literary works, often involving references, allusions, or adaptations of prior works.

Audience Reception: It means how audiences respond to and interpret literary works based on their genre expectations and prior genre-related experiences.
Generic Transformation: It means the process through which genres evolve and adapt to new contexts, incorporating elements from other genres or modifying existing conventions.
Cultural Context: It means the broader societal, historical, and cultural factors that influence the emergence, development, and reception of genres in literature.

Genre Theory-1

Genre theory is an analytical framework to classify and categorize creative works based on shared characteristics and conventions.

Genre theory is an analytical framework used to classify and categorize creative works based on shared characteristics and conventions. It encompasses various art forms, including literature, music, film, and others. The main objective is to identify patterns and structures common to works within specific genres and analyze how these genres shape the audience’s expectations and experiences. By understanding genre distinctions, critics and audiences are able to interpret and appreciate creative expressions, while artists can draw on established conventions or challenge them to create innovative and engaging works. Genre theory plays a crucial role in the study and appreciation of artistic creations across diverse media.

Etymology and Meanings of Genre Theory

Etymology:

The term “genre” comes from the French word genre, meaning “kind” or “type.”
In the literary context, “genre” refers to the classification of literary works based on form, style, and subject matter.

Genre theory aims to understand how different literary genres are defined and function within cultural and social contexts.

Meanings:

Concerned with the study of various literary genres: fiction, poetry, drama, and non-fiction.
Analyzes conventions and expectations associated with each genre, shaping meaning and communication.

Examines the evolution of genres over time and their interactions with historical, social, and cultural factors.
Explores hybrid forms of literature that blur the boundaries between different genres.
Provides a useful tool for comprehending the structure and cultural significance of literature.

Aspect	Genre Theory	Genre Literary Theory

Scope	Applies to various forms of media and art	A specific application focused on the literature
Focus	Categorization and classification	Analysis of literary genres and their usage by authors
Shared Characteristics	Identifies patterns and structures in genres	Examines how authors use genre conventions
Audience Impact	Shapes audience expectations and experiences	Influences reception and evaluation of literary works
Broader Considerations	Includes various art forms	Considers socio-cultural aspects, historical context, etc.
Examples	Categorizing films, music, literature, etc.	Analyzing different literary genres and their evolution

Theorists, Works and Arguments About Genre Theory

Aristotle’s Poetics is one of the earliest and most influential works on genre theory. He categorizes literary genres such as tragedy and epic poetry, discussing their characteristics and purposes, and emphasizes the importance of catharsis in tragedy.
- Frye’s Anatomy of Criticism presents a systematic approach to literary theory, including genre theory. He introduces the concept of “literary archetypes” and argues that all literature can be classified into distinct genres based on underlying patterns.
- Todorov’s The Fantastic: A Structural Approach to a Literary Genre focuses on the fantastic genre, analyzing its structure and the transition between the uncanny and the marvelous. He proposes the concept of the “fantastic hesitation” where readers oscillate between accepting supernatural events or providing rational explanations.
- Bakhtin’s Problems of Dostoevsky’s Poetics shows his ideas about dialogism and heteroglossia have significant implications for genre theory. He argues that genres are not rigid and fixed, but they evolve through dynamic interactions with other genres and through the voices of various social groups.

- Barthes’ Introduction to the Structural Analysis of Narratives contributes to genre theory by examining narrative structures and how they function. He explores the “hermeneutic code” and “proairetic code” to understand how narratives create suspense and convey meaning.
- Derrida’s Law of Genre deconstructs the notion of fixed genres and argues that genres are not absolute, but rather marked by instability and intertextuality. He emphasizes the interconnectedness of genres and the difficulty of defining them in isolation.
- Hutcheon’s A Theory of Adaptation focuses on the adaptation of literary works across different media and genres. She examines how adaptations challenge traditional genre boundaries and how the interplay between source and adaptation influences the meaning of the works.

These theorists and their works have contributed to the development and understanding of genre theory, enriching our comprehension of how literary genres function, evolve, and interact within the broader landscape of literature.

Principles of Genre Theory

Principle	Explanation
Genres are Categories	Used to classify and organize literature and art based on shared characteristics, conventions, and expectations.
Dynamic Nature of Genres	They can change over time due to cultural, social, and historical influences.
Constantly Evolving	Genres are not fixed; they evolve through interactions between different voices and perspectives in literature.
Conventions of Genres	Include narrative structure, character types, themes, and style shared within the category.
Expectations in Genres	Guide audience interpretations, involving themes, character types, setting, and plot.
Artistic Use of Genre Conventions	Artists and authors employ genre conventions to create meaning and communicate ideas.
Interaction of Genres	Genres are not isolated but interact with each other, sometimes creating hybrid forms.
Challenging Expectations	Genres can create expectations that are met, subverted, or challenged to produce new interpretations and meaning.
Overall Significance of Genre Theory	Genre theory provides a framework for understanding how different forms of art are structured, function within a broader cultural and artistic context, and how they are used to create meaning and communicate ideas.

Genre Theory and English Studies

Genre theory holds significant relevance in the field of English Studies as it establishes a framework for understanding and analyzing literary and cultural texts based on their shared characteristics, conventions, and communicative purposes. By categorizing works into distinct genres and sub-genres, genre theory enables scholars to conduct in-depth textual analysis, interpret literature within its appropriate context, and recognize the evolution of genres over time. This interdisciplinary approach bridges the gap between literature, linguistics, cultural studies, and communication, fostering a comprehensive understanding of how genres influence audience perception and reflect societal values. Furthermore, genre theory aids in designing effective teaching strategies, exploring adaptations and transmedia storytelling, and embracing genre hybridity and innovation in contemporary artistic expression, making it an essential tool in the ongoing exploration and appreciation of literature and other forms of creative expression in English Studies.

Cognitive Poetics/Literary Theory-2

Cognitive Poetics, within the realm of literary theory, is an interdisciplinary approach that seeks to understand how readers’ cognitive processes, including perception, memory, and imagination, interact with and shape their interpretation of literary texts.

Cognitive poetics in the realm of literary theory is an interdisciplinary approach that seeks to understand how readers’ cognitive processes, including perception, memory, and imagination, interact with and shape their interpretation of literary texts. By examining the mental activities involved in the comprehension and emotional engagement with literature, Cognitive Poetics aims to elucidate the cognitive mechanisms underlying the production and reception of literary meaning, shedding light on the intricate interplay between language, cognition, and aesthetics.

Cognitive Poetics: Critics, Works, and Argument against It

Critics	Critique	Works
New Critics and Formalists	Argue against reducing literature to cognitive processes and psychological analysis, emphasizing intrinsic analysis of formal elements.	The New Criticism by Cleanth Brooks The Intentional Fallacy by W.K. Wimsatt and Monroe C. Beardsley
Poststructuralist and Postmodern Critics	Criticize the essentialist approach and fixed meanings in literary analysis, expressing concerns about privileging authorial intent and reader cognition.	“The Death of the Author” by Roland Barthes Of Grammatology by Jacques Derrida
Reader-Response Theorists	Reject the notion of universal cognitive structures in literary interpretation, emphasizing the role of individual reader subjectivity.	The Act of Reading: A Theory of Aesthetic Response by Wolfgang Iser Aesthetic Response and the Nature of Literary Criticism by Norman N. Holland
Historical Materialists	Point out the ahistorical and apolitical focus in cognitive analysis, advocating for considering social and historical contexts.	Literary Theory: An Introduction by Terry Eagleton The Poverty of Theory and Other Essays by E.P. Thompson
Feminist and Gender Critics	Raise concerns about overlooking gendered aspects of literary representation and limited focus on gender issues in cognitive approaches.	The Madwoman in the Attic: The Woman Writer and the Nineteenth-Century Literary Imagination by Sandra Gilbert and Susan Gubar Gender Trouble: Feminism and the Subversion of Identity y Judith Butler
Postcolonial Critics	Criticize universal cognitive universals that neglect cultural diversity and emphasize the impact of colonial history on literary production.	Orientalism by Edward Said The Location of Culture by Homi K. Bhabha
Deconstructionists	Challenge fixed meanings and binary oppositions in cognitive approaches, advocating for destabilizing linguistic and conceptual constructs.	Of Grammatology by Jacques Derrida Derrida: A Very Short Introduction by Simon Glendinning
Cultural Studies Scholars	Express concerns about overemphasis on individual cognitive processes and advocate exploring collective and cultural dimensions of interpretation.	Cultural Studies and the Study of Popular Culture: Theories and Methods by John Storey The Production of Culture: Media and the Urban Arts by Richard A. Peterson
Posthumanist Critics	Criticize anthropocentrism in cognitive analysis of literary works, emphasizing the importance of considering non-human agency and perspectives.	Cyborgs, Coyotes, and Dogs: A Kinship of Feminist Science Fiction by Donna HarawayThe Posthuman by Rosi Braidotti
Psychoanalytic Theorists	Point out the reductionist view of the mind in cognitive approaches, emphasizing the role of unconscious processes and desires in literature.	The Interpretation of Dreams by Sigmund Freud The Mirror and the Mask: On Narcissism and Psychoanalytic Growth by Marion Milner

Examples of Critique in Cognitive Poetics

Example	Critique in Cognitive Poetics
“The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock” by T.S. Eliot	Analysis of how the use of mental imagery in the poem shapes the reader’s interpretation of the speaker’s anxiety and alienation. Cognitive Poetics highlights how the vivid mental images in the poem evoke emotions and cognitive responses in the reader, allowing them to empathize with the speaker’s psychological state and delve into the complexities of human consciousness.
“The Raven” by Edgar Allan Poe	Analysis of how the use of repetition and sound in the poem creates a sense of unease and contributes to the reader’s cognitive response to the text. Cognitive Poetics examines how the rhythmic and repetitive elements in the poem engage the reader’s mind, intensifying their emotional experience and influencing the interpretation of the eerie atmosphere and the narrator’s descent into madness.
“A Rose for Emily” by William Faulkner	Analysis of how the use of narrative perspective and structure in the story shapes the reader’s understanding of the characters’ mental states and perceptions. Cognitive Poetics analyzes how the narrative choices impact the reader’s mental simulation and empathy, helping them navigate the complex psychology of the characters and their perspectives on the unfolding events in the story.
“Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” by Robert Frost	Analysis of how the use of metaphor and mental imagery in the poem shapes the reader’s response to the speaker’s contemplation of mortality and the natural world. Cognitive Poetics explores how the metaphors and vivid imagery in the poem prompt mental simulations and emotional responses in readers, allowing them to connect with the speaker’s introspection on life’s transience and the allure of nature.
“The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman	Analysis of how the use of metaphor and mental imagery in the story shapes the reader’s understanding of the narrator’s mental state and experiences. Cognitive Poetics scrutinizes how the metaphors and mental imagery allow readers to enter the narrator’s cognitive world, providing insights into her declining mental health and the oppressive nature of her environment, leading to a heightened emotional engagement.
“The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost	Analysis of how the use of metaphor and mental imagery in the poem shapes the reader’s response to the speaker’s decision-making process. Cognitive Poetics examines how the metaphors and mental simulations trigger contemplation in readers, inviting them to ponder their own life choices, reflecting on the complexities of decision-making and its emotional consequences.
“The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe	Analysis of how the use of metaphor and mental imagery in the story shapes the reader’s understanding of the narrator’s mental state and perception of reality. Cognitive Poetics explores how the story’s vivid imagery and metaphors immerse readers in the narrator’s mind, enabling them to grasp the distorted perspective and emotional turmoil of an unreliable narrator, thus enhancing their cognitive engagement with the text.
“Araby” by James Joyce	Analysis of how the use of sensory details in the story shapes the reader’s understanding of the character’s emotional experiences. Cognitive Poetics focuses on how the sensory descriptions elicit readers’ sensory and emotional responses, allowing them to empathize with the protagonist’s emotional journey and engage more deeply with the themes of desire and disillusionment in the story.
“Diving into the Wreck” by Adrienne Rich	Analysis of how the use of metaphor and mental imagery in the poem shapes the reader’s response to the speaker’s exploration of the self and identity. Cognitive Poetics examines how the metaphors and mental simulations invite readers to experience the speaker’s introspection, encouraging them to reflect on their own identities and emotional transformations while navigating the poetic landscape of self-discovery.
“The Waste Land” by T.S. Eliot	Analysis of how the use of complex imagery and fragmented structure in the poem shapes the reader’s interpretation and contributes to their cognitive response to the text. Cognitive Poetics delves into how the intricate imagery and fragmented narrative structure challenge readers’ cognitive processes, inviting them to actively reconstruct meaning and engage with the poem’s multi-layered themes and emotions.

These examples illustrate how Cognitive Poetics Literary Theory offers insights into the cognitive processes involved in the reader’s engagement with literature, enabling a deeper understanding of the emotional and intellectual impact of literary works.

Cognitive Poetics and English Studies

Cognitive Poetics and English Studies share a symbiotic relationship, as the former enriches the latter with a deeper understanding of the cognitive processes involved in the reading and interpretation of literary texts. By integrating cognitive insights into the analysis of literature, English Studies gain valuable tools to explore the complexities of human thought and emotion, providing novel perspectives on the creation and reception of literary meaning. Through this interdisciplinary collaboration, Cognitive Poetics enhances the study of English literature by offering a comprehensive framework that bridges the gap between language, cognition, and aesthetics, ultimately fostering a more profound appreciation and interpretation of literary works.

Cognitive Poetics / Literary Theory-1

Cognitive Poetics is a literary theory that emerged in the late 20th century, combining principles of cognitive science and literary studies.

Cognitive Poetics is a literary theory that emerged in the late 20th century, combining principles of cognitive science and literary studies. It aims to explore how readers comprehend and respond to literary texts. It also seeks to understand the cognitive processes that occur during the act of reading and how these processes influence the interpretation and emotional experience of literature.

Etymology and Meanings of Cognitive Poetics Literary Theory

Etymology of Cognitive Poetics:

Cognitive: Derived from the Latin word cognitivus, meaning “related to knowing or perceiving.” It pertains to mental processes, such as understanding, reasoning, and memory.
Poetics: Originates from the Greek word poiesis, meaning “making” or “creation.” In literary terms, it refers to the study of poetic or literary composition and the principles governing artistic expression. Therefore, it is a literary theory or cognitive poetics literary theory pertaining to the mental processes of reading.

Meanings of Cognitive Poetics Literary Theory

Meaning	Explanation
Interdisciplinary Approach	Cognitive Poetics is an interdisciplinary literary theory that merges principles from cognitive science and literary studies, combining insights from both fields. It aims to uncover the cognitive processes underlying the creation and interpretation of literary texts.
Understanding Reading Processes	It analyzes how readers comprehend and engage with literary texts during the act of reading. It delves into the mental processes involved in making meaning from the text and explores the cognitive strategies used by readers.
Mental Models	Cognitive Poetics explores the construction of mental models, which are mental representations of events, characters, and settings described in the text. These mental models aid readers in forming a coherent understanding of the narrative.
Schema Theory	Drawing on schema theory, this literary theory examines how readers utilize pre-existing knowledge structures (schemas) to interpret new information in literary works. It explores how these schemas influence readers’ comprehension and interpretation.
Conceptual Blending	Cognitive Poetics delves into the process of conceptual blending, where readers combine elements from the text with their background knowledge to create new and metaphorical meanings. This blending enriches the reader’s experience and interpretation.
Embodied Mind	It acknowledges the role of the body and sensorimotor experiences in the reading and interpretation of literature. It recognizes that bodily experiences can influence readers’ emotional responses and understanding of the text.
Defamiliarization	Cognitive Poetics investigates how literary texts can present familiar aspects of life in a way that challenges readers’ automatic perceptions. By defamiliarizing the familiar, the text prompts readers to engage more deeply with the material.
Emotional Engagement	The theory explores the emotional responses evoked in readers while interacting with literary works. It examines how language and narrative techniques can evoke various emotions, enhancing the reader’s emotional engagement with the text.
Complementary to Literary Theories	Cognitive Poetics enriches traditional literary theories by providing insights into the cognitive mechanisms behind readers’ interactions with texts. It complements other approaches by offering a deeper understanding of the cognitive aspect of literature.

Definition of Cognitive Poetics Literary Theory

Cognitive poetics explores how readers understand and experience literature through their cognitive processes, including mental imagery, conceptual blending, embodied cognition, and schemas.

Cognitive Poetics Literary Theory: Origin, Major Critics and Works

Origin:

Emergence: Cognitive Poetics emerged in the late 20th century as an interdisciplinary approach that combines cognitive science and literary studies.
Influences: It draws from various disciplines, including cognitive linguistics, psychology, neuroscience, and literary theory.

Major Critics and Scholars:

Reuven Tsur: Israeli poet and scholar, known for his foundational work in Cognitive Poetics, including What Makes Sound Patterns Expressive: The Poetic Mode of Speech-Perception.
Peter Stockwell: British scholar, recognized for his contributions to this theory and stylistics, author of Cognitive Poetics: An Introduction.
Lisa Zunshine: American literary scholar, known for exploring cognitive approaches to literature in her works, such as Why We Read Fiction: Theory of Mind and the Novel.

David Herman: American scholar, known for his research on narrative and cognition, co-editor of The Emergence of Mind: Representations of Consciousness in Narrative Discourse.

Major Works:

The Literary Mind by Mark Turner: It is seminal work that discusses how literary creativity and cognition are intertwined.
Fictional Minds by Alan Palmer: This work explores the relationship between fiction and cognitive processes, introducing the concept of “cognitive narratology.”

Metaphors We Live By by George Lakoff and Mark Johnson: Though not exclusively focused on literature, this work has been influential in discussing how metaphors shape thought and language.
Reading Minds: The Study of English in the Age of Cognitive Science by Mark Turner: It is a comprehensive exploration of cognitive approaches to literature and reading.
Cognitive Poetics in Practice by Joanna Gavins and Gerard Steen: This book offers practical applications to the analysis of literary texts.

Unnatural Narrative: Theory, History, and Practice edited by Jan Alber and Rüdiger Heinze: It includes essays exploring cognitive aspects of unnatural and experimental narratives.

Significance of Cognitive Poetics in English Studies

Cognitive poetics holds significant value in English Studies as it offers a groundbreaking interdisciplinary approach that explores the cognitive processes and structures underlying the creation, reception, and interpretation of literary texts. By bridging the gap between literary theory and cognitive science, this field provides new insights into how readers engage with language, symbols, and narratives, shedding light on the intricacies of poetic meaning-making and aesthetic experiences. Through the examination of mental concepts such as metaphor, imagery, and narrative schemas, Cognitive poetics enriches our understanding of literary creativity and communication, enhancing the appreciation of literature’s profound impact on human cognition and emotion. Its application facilitates a deep comprehension of the complexities of literary works, fostering innovative teaching methodologies and literary analyses that enrich the study of English literature and language.

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Etymology of Poetic Justice

Meanings of Poetic Justice

Poetic Justice in Grammar

Definition of Poetic Justice

Types of Poetic Justice

Literary Examples of Poetic Justice

How to Create Poetic Justice in a Fictional Work

Benefits of Poetic Justice

Poetic Justice and Literary Theory

Suggested Readings

Introduction

Critics, Works and Arguments: Criticism Against Genre Theory

Critics:

Works and Arguments Against Genre Theory:

Examples of Genre Theory

Keywords in Genre Theory

Suggested Readings

More from Literary Theory:

Etymology and Meanings of Genre Theory

Etymology:

Meanings:

Theorists, Works and Arguments About Genre Theory

Principles of Genre Theory

Genre Theory and English Studies

Suggested Readings

Cognitive Poetics: Critics, Works, and Argument against It

Examples of Critique in Cognitive Poetics

Cognitive Poetics and English Studies

Suggested Readings

Etymology and Meanings of Cognitive Poetics Literary Theory

Etymology of Cognitive Poetics:

Meanings of Cognitive Poetics Literary Theory

Definition of Cognitive Poetics Literary Theory

Cognitive Poetics Literary Theory: Origin, Major Critics and Works

Origin:

Major Critics and Scholars:

Major Works:

Significance of Cognitive Poetics in English Studies

Suggested Readings

More from Literary Theory: