Focalization (/ˌfoʊ.kəl.aɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/) is the act of focusing or concentrating on something. The spelling of this word is based on the word "focus" with the addition of the suffix "-alization". The IPA phonetic transcription of this word consists of six syllables, with stress on the third syllable (aɪ), which is pronounced as a diphthong, as in the word "eye". The final syllable (-ʃən) is pronounced with a "sh" sound followed by the vowel sound "-uh-n".
Focalization is a term primarily used in literary theory and narratology to describe the perspective or point of view from which a narrative is presented. It refers to the conscious selection and restriction of the narrative's focus to a particular character's thoughts, perceptions, or experiences. Focalization determines the level of access the reader or audience has to the internal world of a character, thus influencing their understanding and interpretation of the events presented.
This technique allows the narrator to control the flow of information by filtering it through the chosen character's subjective lens. It shapes the reader's engagement with the narrative by either aligning their perspective with the character or creating distance and detachment. Focalization can be internal, where the thoughts and emotions of the focalizing character are directly presented, or external, where the focus remains on the character's actions and behavior without delving into their mental state.
Focalization plays a crucial role in shaping the reader's understanding of the story and its characters. By limiting access to certain information and focusing on one character's perspective, it can create suspense, surprise, or even bias. The choice of focalization also affects the narrative's reliability and credibility, as different characters may provide contrasting or unreliable accounts of events. Overall, focalization is a narrative technique that enables authors to shape the reader's experience and viewpoint within a fictional world.
The word "focalization" came into the English language in the mid-20th century, derived from the French term "focalisation". The French root can be traced back to the Latin word "focus", meaning "hearth" or "fireplace". In Latin, the term was also used metaphorically to refer to a center of attention or interest. The suffix "-ation" in English implies the action or process of something, so "focalization" denotes the act or process of focusing or directing attention towards a particular point or center. In literary theory, "focalization" refers to the perspective from which a story is perceived or narrated.