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Examples Of Deconstructive Criticism In Literary


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How to Apply Deconstructive Criticism to Literary Texts


Deconstructive criticism is a form of philosophical and literary analysis that challenges the fundamental assumptions and oppositions in Western thought and language. It was developed mainly by the French philosopher Jacques Derrida in the 1960s and 1970s, and has influenced many fields of study, such as law, psychoanalysis, feminism, and film theory.


Deconstructive criticism aims to expose the instability and contradictions of meaning in texts, especially those that rely on binary oppositions, such as good/evil, presence/absence, speech/writing, nature/culture, etc. Deconstructive critics argue that these oppositions are not natural or fixed, but rather constructed by the text and its context. They also claim that one term of the opposition is usually privileged or dominant over the other, creating a hierarchy that suppresses or marginalizes alternative perspectives.


To apply deconstructive criticism to literary texts, one can follow these steps:


Identify the main binary oppositions in the text and how they are presented or implied.


Analyze how the text undermines or subverts its own oppositions through language, structure, style, or narrative techniques.


Explore how the text reveals the interdependence or contamination of the opposing terms, showing that they are not mutually exclusive or pure.


Examine how the text opens up multiple and contradictory interpretations that challenge any single or authoritative meaning.


Here are some examples of deconstructive criticism applied to literary texts:


In Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, one of the main binary oppositions is human/monster. The text challenges this opposition by showing that Victor Frankenstein and his creature are both human and monstrous in different ways. The text also questions the distinction between nature and culture, as the creature is both a product of natural elements and a result of scientific experimentation. The text invites various readings that explore the ethical, psychological, and social implications of creating and abandoning life.


In The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, one of the main binary oppositions is innocence/experience. The text undermines this opposition by showing that Holden Caulfield is neither innocent nor experienced, but rather a complex and contradictory character who struggles with his identity and alienation. The text also subverts the opposition between speech and writing, as Holden's narration is both oral and written, colloquial and literary. The text offers multiple perspectives on adolescence, adulthood, and authenticity.


In The Awakening by Kate Chopin, one of the main binary oppositions is freedom/constraint. The text subverts this opposition by showing that Edna Pontellier's quest for freedom is also a source of constraint, as she faces social pressure, moral judgment, and personal conflict. The text also blurs the opposition between masculine and feminine, as Edna adopts both traditionally male and female roles and behaviors. The text provokes different interpretations on feminism, sexuality, and selfhood.


Deconstructive criticism can help readers to appreciate the complexity and richness of literary texts, as well as to question their own assumptions and values. 248dff8e21






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