From Plato to Post-Modernism 1

Question 1

Mimetic Theories

Answer 1

First of four divisions of history of criticisms by M. H. Abrams. Focus on relationship between poem and universe. Explore the nature of imitations (Gk. Mimesis) and view poem as mirror of external realities.

Question 2

Pragmatic Theories

Answer 2

Second of four divisions of history of criticisms by M. H. Abrams. Focus on relationship between poem and audience. Assess the social, didactic functions of art (to teach and to please) and establish aesthetic rules for judging the skill of poet and taste of reader.

Question 3

Expressive Theories

Answer 3

Third of four divisions of history of criticisms by M. H. Abrams. Focus on relationship between poem and poet. Poetry is a reflection of internal rather than external realities–this is a concept we call romantic. Poetry has a personal and prophetic function rather than social or didactic function. Poem = poet.

Question 4

Objective Theories

Answer 4

Fourth of four divisions of history of criticisms by M. H. Abrams. Focus on poem itself as a self contained, self-referential artifact that can be studied independent from the universe, the audience, or the poet.