M.H. Abrams' "The Deconstructive Angel" -Contemporary Literary Criticism: Unit II Study Material- M.A. ENGLISH SECOND YEAR

 Contemporary Literary Criticism: Unit II Study Material

M.H. Abrams' "The Deconstructive Angel"

    Introduction

M.H. Abrams' essay "The Deconstructive Angel" is a significant critique of deconstruction, particularly focusing on the theories of Jacques Derrida and Paul de Man. Published in 1977, this work represents a traditional humanist perspective challenging the poststructuralist approach to literary criticism.

    Short Answer Questions and Responses (2 marks each)

1. Q: How does Abrams characterize the main thrust of deconstructionist criticism?

   A: Abrams views deconstructionist criticism as an approach that undermines traditional interpretations by revealing inherent contradictions and instabilities in texts.

2. Q: What is Abrams' perspective on the role of authorial intention in literary interpretation?

   A: Abrams argues for the importance of considering authorial intention, contrary to deconstructionist dismissal of author-centered interpretation.

3. Q: How does Abrams' essay challenge the deconstructionist view of language?

   A: Abrams challenges the deconstructionist idea that language is inherently unstable and unreliable for conveying meaning.

4. Q: What does Abrams suggest about the relationship between a text and its context?

   A: Abrams emphasizes the importance of historical and cultural context in understanding a text, contrary to deconstructionist focus on the text in isolation.

5. Q: How does Abrams view the deconstructionist approach to binary oppositions in texts?

   A: Abrams critiques the deconstructionist tendency to reverse and dissolve binary oppositions, arguing for a more balanced view of textual structures.

6. Q: What is Abrams' stance on the deconstructionist claim of the "impossibility of reading"?

   A: Abrams challenges this claim, asserting that coherent and meaningful readings of texts are indeed possible and valuable.

7. Q: How does Abrams characterize the deconstructionist view of the critic's role?

   A: Abrams criticizes the deconstructionist elevation of the critic's role to that of a creative rewriter of the text.

8. Q: What analogy does Abrams use to describe the deconstructionist approach to texts?

   A: Abrams likens deconstruction to a "parasite" that feeds on and distorts the host text it analyzes.

9. Q: How does Abrams view the deconstructionist approach to metaphor and figurative language?

   A: Abrams challenges the deconstructionist emphasis on the destabilizing effects of metaphor, arguing for a more traditional view of figurative language.

10. Q: What does Abrams suggest about the ethical implications of deconstructionist criticism?

    A: Abrams raises concerns about the ethical consequences of deconstructionist approaches, particularly in their potential to undermine shared meanings and values.

    Paragraph Questions (5 marks each)

1. Q: Analyze Abrams' critique of the deconstructionist approach to textual interpretation.

   A: Abrams' critique includes:

   - Challenging the dismissal of authorial intention

   - Arguing for the importance of historical and cultural context

   - Questioning the focus on textual instability and contradictions

   - Defending the possibility of coherent and meaningful readings

   - Criticizing the elevation of the critic's role in creating meaning

2. Q: Examine how Abrams defends the role of context and intention in literary interpretation.

   A: Abrams' defense involves:

   - Emphasizing the importance of historical and cultural background

   - Arguing that authorial intention provides valuable insights

   - Challenging the deconstructionist focus on the text in isolation

   - Suggesting that context and intention contribute to more comprehensive understanding

   - Proposing that ignoring these factors leads to limited or distorted readings

3. Q: Discuss Abrams' perspective on the relationship between language, meaning, and interpretation.

   A: Abrams' perspective includes:

   - Rejecting the notion that language is inherently unstable or unreliable

   - Arguing for the possibility of clear communication through texts

   - Challenging the deconstructionist emphasis on indeterminacy

   - Defending the idea that texts can convey coherent meanings

   - Proposing a more balanced view of the complexities of language and interpretation

4. Q: Evaluate Abrams' concerns about the ethical implications of deconstructionist criticism.

   A: Abrams' concerns include:

   - The potential undermining of shared meanings and values

   - The risk of nihilism in literary and cultural analysis

   - The ethical problems of treating all interpretations as equally valid

   - The implications for social and political discourse

   - The potential loss of literature's moral and humanistic value

5. Q: Analyze how Abrams' essay reflects broader debates in literary theory and criticism.

   A: Abrams' essay reflects:

   - The tension between traditional humanist and poststructuralist approaches

   - Debates about the nature of meaning and interpretation

   - Questions about the role of the author, reader, and critic

   - Concerns about the social and ethical responsibilities of criticism

   - The ongoing negotiation between different schools of literary thought

Essay Question (10 marks)

Q: Critically examine M.H. Abrams' arguments in "The Deconstructive Angel" against deconstructionist literary criticism, and evaluate the significance of his critique for contemporary literary studies.

     Introduction

M.H. Abrams' "The Deconstructive Angel" represents a significant moment in the debate between traditional humanist approaches to literary criticism and the emerging poststructuralist theories, particularly deconstruction. This essay offers a robust critique of deconstructionist methods, challenging their fundamental assumptions and implications for literary studies.

     Abrams' Key Arguments

1. **Defense of Authorial Intention**

   - Argues for the relevance of authorial intention in interpretation

   - Challenges the deconstructionist dismissal of the author's role

   - Proposes that intention provides valuable context for understanding

2. **Importance of Historical and Cultural Context**

   - Emphasizes the need to consider texts within their historical framework

   - Critiques deconstructionist tendency to analyze texts in isolation

   - Argues that context is crucial for comprehensive interpretation

3. **Critique of Linguistic Instability**

   - Challenges the deconstructionist view of language as inherently unstable

   - Defends the possibility of clear communication through texts

   - Questions the emphasis on indeterminacy and endless interpretation

4. **Defense of Coherent Reading**

   - Argues against the deconstructionist claim of the "impossibility of reading"

   - Proposes that meaningful, coherent interpretations are both possible and valuable

   - Challenges the notion that all readings are equally valid or invalid

5. **Ethical Concerns**

   - Raises questions about the ethical implications of deconstructionist approaches

   - Warns against potential nihilism in literary and cultural analysis

   - Argues for the preservation of literature's moral and humanistic value

     Analysis of Abrams' Critique

1. **Strengths**

   - Provides a cogent defense of traditional humanist approaches

   - Highlights potential limitations and contradictions in deconstructionist theory

   - Raises important questions about the purpose and value of literary criticism

2. **Limitations**

   - May oversimplify some aspects of deconstructionist theory

   - Potentially underestimates the value of questioning traditional assumptions

   - Might not fully engage with the philosophical underpinnings of deconstruction

3. **Rhetorical Strategy**

   - Uses clear, accessible language to critique complex theoretical concepts

   - Employs metaphors (e.g., the "parasite") to illustrate his arguments

   - Engages directly with deconstructionist texts and ideas

     Significance for Contemporary Literary Studies

1. **Ongoing Debates**

   - Contributes to continuing discussions about the nature of interpretation

   - Informs debates about the role of context and intention in literary analysis

   - Raises enduring questions about the purpose and methods of criticism

2. **Balancing Approaches**

   - Encourages a more balanced approach to literary interpretation

   - Suggests the value of integrating traditional and poststructuralist insights

   - Promotes critical reflection on the assumptions of different critical schools

3. **Ethical Considerations**

   - Highlights the ethical dimensions of literary criticism

   - Encourages consideration of the broader implications of critical approaches

   - Raises questions about the social and cultural responsibilities of critics

4. **Pedagogical Implications**

   - Influences approaches to teaching literary interpretation

   - Encourages students to consider multiple perspectives on texts

   - Promotes critical thinking about the methods and goals of literary analysis

5. **Interdisciplinary Relevance**

   - Extends beyond literary studies to other fields in the humanities

   - Contributes to broader discussions about meaning, interpretation, and knowledge

   - Informs approaches to textual analysis in various disciplines

     Conclusion

M.H. Abrams' critique in "The Deconstructive Angel" remains a significant contribution to literary theory and criticism. While some may disagree with his positions, his arguments have played a crucial role in shaping debates about interpretation, meaning, and the purpose of literary studies. The essay continues to provoke thought and discussion, encouraging a more nuanced and self-reflective approach to literary criticism that considers both traditional and poststructuralist insights.