Eve Sedgwick 'Paranoid Reading and Reparative Reading'

Question 1

hooks argument aligns with Sedgwick’s through the importance placed on

Answer 1

intentionality in theory and modes of reading

Question 2

Both challenge the idea that

Answer 2

theory or critical reading has inherent transformative power

Question 3

Instead, they suggest that transformative potential is

Answer 3

fostered through intentional and purposeful engagement

Question 4

The “reparative reading” model allows Sedgwick to offer an example

Answer 4

of how individuals can change their reading practices in order to achieve a goal that is healing, liberatory and revolutionary

Question 5

In contrast to paranoia, reparative reading is a more

Answer 5

constructive and empathetic approach to texts that looks for the positive and understands that theory can be beneficial for readers

Question 6

The same way that hooks argues that this positive potential is not “inherent”

Answer 6

Sedgwick too suggests that to read reparatively must be a conscious choice

Question 7

as the natural and instinctive

Answer 7

mode of reading is paranoid reading

Question 8

Characterized by

Answer 8

suspicion, critique and negativity

Question 9

paranoid reading highlights the

Answer 9

potential harm or lack of inherent positive qualities in theory and literature

Question 10

paranoid reading is a limiting mode of reading

Answer 10

as it works through presupposing bad intentions to every text

Question 11

Sedgwick highlights a need to be

Answer 11

intentional and deliberate through our reading practices

Question 12

in order to acquire

Answer 12

the transformative potential that hooks outlines in her statement

Question 13

By moving us beyond

Answer 13

what we initially might feel when receiving a text

Question 14

Sedgwick embraces the

Answer 14

agency of the reader in shaping the impact of their engagement

Question 15

A conscious decision to reparatively read

Answer 15

is an effective option over paranoia as a reader is able to make something great out of their reading

Question 16

Whilst paranoid reading is interested in

Answer 16

uncovering hidden power structures and oppressive ideologies

Question 17

greater transformative powers

Answer 17

are hidden behind a reparative approach as it looks beyond simply recognising the social significance of a text

Question 18

reparative reading actually seeks

Answer 18

to understand the construction of such narratives and ideologies within a text

Question 19

Sedgwick and hooks therefore relate on the acknowledgement that theory

Answer 19

only becomes a tool for positive change when an individual makes that conscious effort to purposefully and actively engage with a text