25. The End of Theory?; Neo-Pragmatism

Introduction to Theory of Literature (ENGL 300)In this lecture, Professor Paul Fry takes on Knapp and Michaels's influential article, "Against Theory." The historical context of the piece is given and key aspects of the theorists' critical orientations, specifically their neo-pragmatism, are defined. A lengthy discussion of the relationships between, on the one hand, intention and meaning and, on the other hand, language and speech follows with reference to Saussure, deconstruction, and Russian formalism. Knapp and Michaels's use of Wordsworth's "A Slumber Did My Spirit Seal" to explore the limits of meaning and intention is examined in depth. Ultimately, the case is made, using issues subject to dispute in Knapp and Michaels, that theory is a useful and necessary tool in literary studies.Complete course materials are available at the Open Yale Courses website: http://open.yale.edu/coursesTh... course was recorded in Spring 2009.

Channel: Education
Uploaded: November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am
Author: YaleCourses

Length: 53:33
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Tags: neo-pragmatist  anti-foundationalist  langue  parole  language and speech  meaning and intention  deconstruction  Richard Rorty  Saussure  Russian formalists  Wordsworth  Stanley Cavell  

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