MODULE THREE - Notes

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Southern New Hampshire University *

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200 X1454

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English

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Jan 9, 2024

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docx

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MODULE THREE NOTES  Formalism and structuralism are both theoretical approaches used in the study of literature: » Formalism: » Formalism emphasizes the formal aspects of a literary work, such as its structure, language, and style. » It focuses on the internal elements of a text and analyzes how they contribute to the overall meaning and effect of the work. » Formalist analysis pays close attention to literary devices, imagery, symbolism, and narrative techniques employed by the author. » It seeks to understand the work as a self-contained entity, independent of its historical, social, or biographical context. » For example, a formalist analysis of a poem might examine its rhyme scheme, meter, and use of metaphors to uncover patterns and themes within the text . » Structuralism: » Structuralism looks beyond the individual literary work and examines the underlying structures and systems that shape meaning. » It explores the relationships between elements within a literary work and how they contribute to a larger, universal structure or system. » Structuralist analysis often focuses on binary oppositions, recurring patterns, and underlying codes or rules that govern the text. » It seeks to identify and interpret the underlying structures that transcend individual works and exist across different texts. » For example, a structuralist analysis of a novel might explore the recurring motifs, character archetypes, or narrative patterns to uncover the underlying structures that exist across multiple texts .  In relation to each other, formalism and structuralism can be seen as complementary approaches in literary analysis. Formalism examines the internal elements and techniques of a single work, while structuralism focuses on the broader structures and systems that govern multiple works. o By combining these approaches, scholars can gain a comprehensive understanding of a literary work, considering both its unique qualities and its relationship to wider literary systems.

 The literary structure of a text refers to the organization and arrangement of its elements, such as plot, character development, and narrative style. o The relationship between literary structure and semantics, or meaning, can be understood in the following ways: » Order and sequence: » The structure of a literary work, including the order and sequence of events, can impact the semantic interpretation of the text. » For example, the placement of a significant event or revelation can influence the reader's understanding of the characters, their motivations, and the overall meaning of the story. » Patterns and repetition: » Literary structures often incorporate patterns and repetitions, which can contribute to the semantic interpretation of a text. » The repetition of certain motifs, symbols, or themes can reinforce meaning and add depth to the overall message of the work. » For instance, the recurring symbol of a red rose in a novel might symbolize love and passion, enhancing the semantic understanding of the story. » Contrast and juxtaposition: » Literary structures can employ contrast and juxtaposition to convey meaning. » By placing contrasting elements side by side, such as light and darkness, good and evil, or rich and poor, authors can highlight thematic conflicts and deepen the semantic significance of the work. » Narrative perspective: » The choice of narrative perspective and point of view can significantly impact the semantic interpretation of a literary work. » Different perspectives can offer varying insights into the characters, events, and themes, leading to different understandings of the text's meaning. What is Reaching Guantanamo by Solmaz Sharif about?

"Reaching Guantanamo" by Solmaz Sharif is a poem that explores the experiences of individuals affected by the detention center at Guantanamo Bay. While I don't have the specific text of the poem, I can provide a general understanding based on the topic. 1. Guantanamo Bay: The poem delves into the setting of Guantanamo Bay, a U.S. military detention center located in Cuba. The poem may touch upon the political and humanitarian issues surrounding the facility, such as the treatment of detainees and debates about human rights. 2. Perspectives of detainees: "Reaching Guantanamo" may give voice to the experiences and perspectives of the detainees themselves. It could shed light on their feelings of confinement, isolation, and the impact that being held in Guantanamo has on their lives. 3. Sociopolitical commentary: The poem might provide sociopolitical commentary on the broader implications of Guantanamo Bay. It may explore themes of power, justice, and the erosion of civil liberties in the name of national security. 4. Language and imagery: Sharif's use of language and imagery in the poem could evoke strong emotions and create vivid mental pictures. Metaphors, symbols, and descriptive language might be employed to convey the complex emotions and realities associated with Guantanamo Bay. It is important to note that without the specific text of the poem, this explanation is based on a general understanding of the topic. Reading the poem directly would provide a more accurate and nuanced understanding of "Reaching Guantanamo." Share connections you see between Structuralism, Poststructuralism, or reader-response theory and the chosen work. For example, you might respond like this: "The setting of 'The Tell- Tale Heart' relates well to this theory through its use of..." What is the connection you see between Structuralism, Poststructuralism, or reader-response theory and Solmaz Sharif's Reaching Guantánamo? The connection between Structuralism, Poststructuralism, Reader-Response Theory, and Solmaz Sharif's "Reaching Guantánamo" can be understood

through their shared focus on language, power dynamics, and interpretation. Structuralism : This critical approach emphasizes the underlying structures and systems that shape meaning in a text. In the context of "Reaching Guantánamo," Structuralism would analyze the poem's form, language, and imagery to identify recurring patterns and structures. It might explore how these elements contribute to the overall meaning and interpretation of the poem. Poststructuralism : Building upon Structuralism, Poststructuralism challenges the idea of stable structures and meanings. It focuses on the instability and contradictions inherent in language and discourses. Applied to "Reaching Guantánamo," a Poststructuralist analysis might examine how the poem disrupts traditional structures and challenges dominant narratives about Guantánamo. It might highlight the playfulness, ambiguity, and multiple interpretations that arise from the poem's language and imagery. Reader-Response Theory : The Reader-Response theory emphasizes the role of the reader in the creation of meaning. It recognizes that readers bring their own experiences, biases, and interpretations to a text. When applied to "Reaching Guantánamo," Reader-Response Theory would explore how different readers engage with and interpret the poem based on their individual perspectives and cultural contexts. It might analyze the ways in which readers' responses and interpretations contribute to the overall understanding of the poem. In summary, the connection between Structuralism, Poststructuralism, Reader-Response Theory, and Solmaz Sharif's "Reaching Guantánamo" lies in their shared focus on language, power dynamics, and interpretation. These critical approaches provide different lenses through which the poem can be analyzed, examining its form, challenging dominant narratives, and considering the diverse interpretations that arise from reader engagement.

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