Of the different approaches to interpreting literature presented in the textbook, the one that appealed to me the most is the Mythological, or Archetypal approach. It appeals to me the most because it examines common themes and techniques used in writing fiction, and the reflection of our myth, legend and history that is present in our creative works. With an Archetypal approach, I can identify characteristics in characters that fit certain roles such as "the untested hero" or "the wise tutor", and also identify common metaphor. With such context, it makes it easier for the reader to relate to the characters and their adventures, as each role can appeal to different readers, thus giving the stories a universal quality.
Putting this approach to practice reading "The Lamb" by William Blake (p.409) we can see the use of lamb as a metaphor for a powerless or innocent being, unawares of the world around it. The use of 'lamb' in this way is common in many religions and cultures, particularly a Christian background, and use of the metaphor gives any reader with these backgrounds a good idea of the author's intent in the use of the word.
Thanks Zachary.
ReplyDeleteThe archetypal approach to literature really emphasizes the commonality between all people. Perhaps the most appealing thing about it to me is the underlying assumption that we, as human beings, really do have more in common that we have in difference.
A critique people lay against the archetypal approach, though, is that while it claims to be about universal humanity, in practice it is really about Western European culture, and that it assumes that the things Westerners have in common with each other are the things that all people everywhere have in common.