FORMALISM

Good morning, everyone. Today, we delve into the intricate world of Formalism. Formalism, is also
known as "art for art's sake" theory, is a critical approach that views literature as an autonomous art
form, focusing primarily on its aesthetic qualities and form. (Meaning, art should be appreciated just for
its looks and how it's made, rather than for any messages or meanings it might have)
What is Formalism?
Let us begin by knowing the collective understanding of formalism.
Formalist criticism offers a method for readers to approach, analyze, and comprehend a text through
conversational narrative structures.
It also strives for objectivity by disregarding external factors and solely concentrating on the literary work
itself.
Let us imagine literature as an entity existing independently and untouched by the environment. That is
Formalism.
Formalists also advocates for a deep understanding of the relationship between symbols and the objects,
experiences, or emotions they represent.
Let’s move on to the Basic Principles of Formalism
At the core of Formalism lies an Emphasis on Aesthetic Qualities. Where we focus on the language,
style, and structure of literary works.
The Rejection of extrinsic Factors such as historical, social, or biographical influences, believing that
they cloud our interpretation of the text.
Instead, our attention is directed towards dissecting the internal form and structure of the literature.
Literature as an Autonomous Art Form
Art for Art's Sake
Formalism views literature as an end in itself, not a reflection of its external context. (It means that, we
should focus only on the words and how they're put together, not on the world outside the text)
Focused on Language
It emphasizes the significance of the language and poetic form in literature. (It means exploring on how
they contribute to the literary experience)
Independence from Reality
It sees literature as a self-contained realm divorced from external reality. (It means that it is seen as its
own separate thing, not tied to the real world.)
Emphasis on Aesthetic Qualities
Language and Style are paramount in Formalism.
Formalism highlights the significance of language, style, and literary techniques in literature.
We recognize the Visual and Sensory Appeal of literary works, appreciating the craftsmanship behind
their creation.
It underscores the visual and sensory elements that contribute to the aesthetic appeal of literary works.
There is also the Rejection of Extrinsic Factors such as…
Historical Context where Formalism dismisses the influence of historical factors on literary
interpretation.
Social Environment where It disregards the impact of social and cultural factors on the analysis of
literary works.
Biographical Details where Formalism ignores the relevance of the author's personal life in interpreting
literature.
Focus on Form and Structure
Objectivity
Formalism emphasizes the objective analysis of literary form and structure. (It means that, it’s objective
is the outer appearance not the background of the literature)
Influence of Russian Formalism
The Russian Formalism was pioneered by scholars like Viktor Shklovsky and Roman Jakobson.

It is where they introduced the concept of "ostranenie" or "defamiliarization" to literary analysis.

(It’s like seeing something familiar in a new and strange way.

Example: Imagine you're reading a story about a tree. Instead of calling it a "tree," they might describe it
as a "towering giant with branches reaching for the sky, its leaves whispering secrets in the wind.")
This movement significantly influenced modern literary theory, leaving a lasting impact on how we
perceive and interpret literature.
However, there are also Criticisms and Limitations of Formalism
Minimalist Approach, were the
Critics argue that Formalism's minimalist approach neglects the socio-political relevance of literature,
focusing too heavily on form.
Moreover, it has been criticized for its literal and isolated interpretation of literary elements, overlooking
broader thematic and contextual significance.
Based on this theory,
Formalist Criticism emphasizes the form of a literary work to determine its meaning, focusing on
literary elements and how they work to create meaning.