The spelling of "literary criticism" can be confusing, as it seems like it should be spelled "literacy criticism". However, the proper spelling is "literary" with an "a" after the "t". The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈlɪtərəri ˈkrɪtɪsɪzəm/. The stress is on the second syllable of both "literary" and "criticism". The "a" in "literary" is pronounced like the "a" in "cat", and the "y" in "criticism" is pronounced like an "i" sound.
Literacy criticism refers to the systematic analysis and evaluation of written texts, such as literature, to understand and interpret their meaning, structure, and cultural significance. It involves examining various aspects of a written work to uncover its underlying messages, themes, and social implications. Literacy criticism aims to enhance readers' comprehension and appreciation of literary forms, while also shedding light on the historical, cultural, and social contexts in which a text was created.
This field of study encompasses a range of methodologies and approaches, including formalist criticism, structuralism, poststructuralism, feminist criticism, and postcolonial criticism, among others. Scholars and critics employ these methods to examine the different elements of a text, including literary devices, narrative structure, characterization, imagery, symbolism, and plot development, among others.
Literacy criticism often aims to challenge conventional interpretations or assumptions about a text, offering new insights and perspectives that can deepen readers' understanding. It encourages readers to critically engage with a piece of writing, questioning its underlying assumptions, biases, and cultural implications. Additionally, literacy criticism can involve comparative analysis, where multiple texts are examined within a broader context, highlighting their similarities, differences, and intertextual connections.
Overall, literacy criticism serves as a valuable tool for literary scholars, educators, and enthusiasts, enabling them to explore and appreciate the richness and complexity of written works, contributing to a broader understanding of literature's role in society.
The etymology of the term "literacy criticism" can be broken down as follows:
1. Literacy: The word "literacy" stems from the Latin word "littera", meaning "letter". In classical Latin, "littera" referred to the individual letters of the alphabet, but over time, it evolved to denote "writing" or "written works". In English, "literacy" refers to the ability to read, write, and comprehend written information.
2. Criticism: The term "criticism" derives from the Ancient Greek word "kritikē", which means "the art of judging" or "discerning". It is derived from "krinein", which means "to judge" or "to separate". In its original sense, "criticism" referred to the act of evaluating, analyzing, and assessing something, particularly works of art, literature, or performance.