What are the possible advantages and disadvantages of the stress laid on a close reading by New Criticism? Answer with reference to Look Back in Anger (MEG 104) (UNIT 16 CRITICAL APPROACHES TO LOOK BACK IN ANGER)

New Criticism is a literary theory that emphasizes the importance of a close reading of a text, focusing on the language, structure, and style of the work rather than its historical or biographical context. Look Back in Anger, a play by John Osborne, is often used as an example of the type of work that New Criticism is well-suited to analyze. Here are some possible advantages and disadvantages of the stress laid on close reading by New Criticism, using Look Back in Anger as an example:

Advantages:

Attention to detail: New Criticism's emphasis on close reading encourages readers to pay close attention to the language and structure of a text, which can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of its artistic qualities. For example, a close reading of Look Back in Anger might reveal how Osborne uses language and dialogue to create a sense of tension and conflict among the characters.

Objective analysis: New Criticism encourages readers to approach a text objectively, focusing on the work itself rather than any external factors such as the author's biography or historical context. This can help prevent readers from imposing their own biases or assumptions onto the text, and can lead to a more nuanced and complex interpretation. For example, a New Critical analysis of Look Back in Anger might focus on the play's themes of class, gender, and politics, without making assumptions about Osborne's own views on these issues.

Formalist approach: New Criticism is often associated with a formalist approach to literature, which means that it values the formal elements of a text (such as its structure, style, and language) over its content or meaning. This can lead to a more nuanced and sophisticated understanding of a text, as readers are encouraged to pay attention to the way that the text is constructed rather than simply its plot or characters.

Disadvantages:

Lack of context: New Criticism's emphasis on close reading can sometimes lead to a lack of attention to the historical or biographical context of a text, which can limit the reader's understanding of the work. For example, a close reading of Look Back in Anger might not take into account the social and political climate of 1950s Britain, which is crucial to understanding the play's themes and characters.

Ignoring reader response: New Criticism tends to focus on the text itself, rather than the reader's response to it. This can limit the ways in which a reader can engage with a text, as it does not allow for a consideration of the reader's own experiences or emotions. For example, a New Critical analysis of Look Back in Anger might not take into account how the play might resonate with readers who have experienced similar issues of class, gender, or politics.

Overemphasis on form: New Criticism's formalist approach can sometimes lead to an overemphasis on the technical aspects of a text, at the expense of its emotional or thematic content. This can limit the reader's understanding of the work, as it does not allow for a consideration of how the text might affect readers on a deeper level. For example, a close reading of Look Back in Anger might not fully capture the play's impact on audiences who were shocked by its frank depiction of sexuality, violence, and disillusionment.