Theory

     Last semester, I took a class that dabbled in enlightening me to literary theory and criticism. Even though this wasn't the focus of the class, the little time that we spent learning and discussing theory was, to me, much more memorable than anything else that was taught. Being an English major, it is fitting that I am an enthusiast for all types of literature. My initial introduction to literary theory was exciting because it felt as if a whole new realm was unveiled. I realized that a single novel or poem could take on a multitude of meanings when looked at using various, unconventional theories. To some, my excitement over literary theory and criticism may come across as a bit pathetic. To others, my enthusiasm may be enviable. To me, however, it only seems right to be enthralled with literature and the vast world that it encompasses.

     The literary theories that are especially captivating to me are biographical theory and psychoanalytic theory. Biographical theory grabs my attention because I like to learn about the authors that create such alluring literature. I feel that it is important to understand the lives that they led; by doing this, it is sometimes easier to understand why they portray characters the way they do, or why there are recurring themes in their work. Psychoanalytic theory mostly interests me because I am fascinated with the ideas of repression and the collective unconscious. Even though the repression of ideas and memories is often evoked by something unfortunate, these ideas make for great literature because the author is able to dismiss the personal agony that is tied with the memory while still allowing their story to be told. The literature acts as a therapeutic outlet. The collective unconscious is something that I would like to learn more about, especially after reading Morrison's Beloved. The idea that humans have the capability to possess a collective memory is mind-boggling to me.

Class starts in six hours. I really need to work on going to bed at a reasonable time...

Hannah