What is literary criticism?
Literary criticism, as defined in the Oxford Dictionary of English, is "the art or practice of judging and commenting on the qualities and character of literary works."
"Criticism" doesn't necessarily mean to criticize or find what is wrong with a work. Literary criticism helps to explain or interpret a novel, a poem, a play, a story -- any work of literature.
Literary Criticism Example
"Jackson's world view does not extend into the realm of metaphysics: it is not possible to deduce from her work any coherent conception of the nature of the universe. She is wholly and avowedly concerned with human relationships, and it is from their complexities that both horror and the supernatural emerge in her work."
Joshi, S.T. "Shirley Jackson: Domestic Horror." Shirley Jackson: Essays on the Literary Legacy. Ed. Bernice M. Murphy. Jefferson, NC: McFarland, 2005. 183-98. Print.
Getting Started
Off-Campus Access
When you are off-campus, you’ll need to use the Library VPN to access our resources. After installing it you will need to login to the VPN each time you would like to use the library resources from off-campus.
If you are using the VPN for the first time (or on a new computer) you'll need to install it. The directions are here, or available from our library homepage.
Need help?
If you have questions or need help, stop by the reference desk, or contact us by phone, email or chat. We like to help!
 Reference Desk Links: Profile & Guides Subjects: General Research Skills |
Loading...
