STRUCTURALISM |LITERARY THEORY |5th Sem BA English,Calicut Univeristy|Saussure,Barthes,Levi- Strauss

Introduction

This tutorial explores the concept of structuralism in literary theory, highlighting its origins, key theorists, and applications in various fields. Understanding structuralism is essential for students of literature, particularly those studying at the undergraduate level. This guide will break down the main ideas presented in the video, making it easier to grasp the fundamental principles and their relevance today.

Step 1: Understand the Origins of Structuralism

• Historical Context: Structuralism emerged in France during the 1950s as a reaction against existentialism and phenomenology.
• Focus on Structure: It emphasizes the importance of underlying structures in cultural phenomena, including language, literature, and society.
• Influence of Saussure: Ferdinand de Saussure, a linguist, laid the groundwork for structuralist thought by introducing concepts like the 'signifier' and 'signified.'

Step 2: Explore Key Theorists of Structuralism

• Ferdinand de Saussure: His work focused on language structures, distinguishing between the 'deep structure' (underlying principles) and 'surface structure' (manifestations in speech).
• Claude Lévi-Strauss: Applied structuralism to anthropology, arguing that cultural elements can be understood as part of a larger system of relationships.
• Roland Barthes: Brought structuralism into literary criticism, analyzing texts to reveal their underlying structures and meanings.
• Noam Chomsky: Contributed to structuralism through linguistic theory, particularly in differentiating deep and surface structures in language.
• Louis Althusser: Introduced Structural Marxism, linking structuralism with Marxist theory, focusing on how ideology shapes social structures.

Step 3: Apply Structuralism to Literature

• Textual Analysis: Use structuralist methods to analyze literary texts by identifying patterns, themes, and narrative structures.
• Intertextuality: Explore how texts reference and relate to each other, creating a web of meanings that enrich understanding.
• Narratology: Study the structure of narratives, including plot, character development, and point of view, to uncover how stories are constructed.

Step 4: Understand Related Concepts

Deep Structure vs. Surface Structure

• Deep structure refers to the fundamental principles that govern a language or text.
• Surface structure represents the actual words or sentences used.
• Structuralism in Other Fields: Recognize that structuralism has influenced various disciplines beyond literature, including sociology, anthropology, and linguistics.

Conclusion

Structuralism offers valuable insights into the nature of language, culture, and literature. By understanding its origins and key theorists, you can apply its principles to analyze texts critically. As you delve deeper, consider exploring how structuralism intersects with other theories, such as post-structuralism and deconstruction, to enrich your literary analysis and critical thinking skills.