American School of Comparative Literature _C9,P2_25/2/24 MA 14th_LCS_Jagannath Uni. BD

Summary

The video explores the evolution of comparative literature, highlighting the American School's broader approach, particularly as articulated by Henry Remak. Unlike European traditions that focus on national literature, Remak emphasizes comparative literature as a study transcending borders, integrating various human expressions like art, sociology, and philosophy. This American perspective, influenced by New Criticism, advocates for a universal understanding of literature as a dynamic interplay of different disciplines, embodied in the 'Melting Pot Theory.' The discussion contrasts the narrow confines of the European approach with a more inclusive, process-oriented view of literary studies.

Takeaways

• 😀 The American School of Comparative Literature emerged in 1987, redefining the field by emphasizing a broader, more inclusive approach to literature.
• 😀 Henry Remak defines comparative literature as the study of literature beyond national boundaries, focusing on relationships between different literatures.
• 😀 Unlike European models, the American approach encourages comparisons not only between literary texts but also with other spheres of knowledge such as art, sociology, and philosophy.
• 😀 The critique of European comparative literature, particularly the French and German schools, highlights their narrow focus on national identity and factual evidence.
• 😀 Remak argues that the influence studies from the French tradition are limited and unimaginative, advocating for a more dynamic understanding of literary works.
• 😀 The American School prioritizes the creative process in literature, contrasting with the European focus on the product of literary analysis.
• 😀 The concept of depoliticization in the American School allows for a universalist perspective in comparative literature, avoiding nationalist constraints.
• 😀 New Criticism, a dominant literary movement in mid-20th century America, emphasizes close reading and textual analysis, impacting the American School's approach.
• 😀 The Melting Pot Theory in American literature suggests that diverse cultural influences can be compared and integrated within literary studies.
• 😀 The American School's framework promotes interdisciplinary studies, linking literature with various fields such as psychology, anthropology, and art.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the American School of Comparative Literature?

The American School of Comparative Literature emphasizes the study of literature beyond national confines and compares literature with various spheres of human expression, such as art, sociology, and philosophy.

Who is Henry Remak, and what role did he play in defining comparative literature?

Henry Remak is a professor emeritus who significantly contributed to the American School of Comparative Literature by proposing a broad definition that includes comparisons across different cultures and disciplines.

How does the American School of Comparative Literature differ from the French and German schools?

The American School is broader and more inclusive, focusing on the interrelation of literature with various fields, whereas the French and German schools tend to be more narrow, focusing primarily on national literature and historical context.

What is the 'Melting Pot' theory in the context of comparative literature?

The 'Melting Pot' theory suggests that various forms of knowledge and expression can be compared and integrated, similar to how a melting pot blends different cultures, promoting a comprehensive understanding of literature.

What influence did New Criticism have on the American School of Comparative Literature?

New Criticism, which emphasizes close reading and the intrinsic features of texts, shaped the American approach by encouraging analysis that focuses on the text itself rather than its historical or contextual background.

What does Remak suggest about the relationship between literature and other disciplines?

Remak suggests that literature can and should be compared with various fields such as sociology, art, economics, and philosophy, allowing for a richer understanding of literary works.

What key distinction does Remak make between the process and product in comparative literature?

Remak highlights that the American School focuses on the creative process involved in literary works, whereas the French school tends to emphasize the final literary product.

What are some spheres of human expression that Remak believes can be compared with literature?

Remak believes that literature can be compared with art, music, philosophy, history, sociology, and economics, thereby expanding the scope of comparative literature.

Why does the American School advocate for the depoliticization of comparative literature?

The American School advocates for depoliticization to foster a more universal approach to literature that transcends nationalistic boundaries, allowing for a focus on creative processes rather than political contexts.

What challenges does Remak identify in defining comparative literature?

Remak acknowledges the terminological problems and the haziness in distinguishing between comparative literature and general literature, suggesting that these definitions are still a matter of debate.