Critical Essay on Matthew Arnold’s The Function of Criticism at the Present Time

 

Critical Essay on Matthew Arnold’s The Function of Criticism at the Present Time

Introduction

Matthew Arnold’s essay “The Function of Criticism at the Present Time” is a foundational work in the field of literary criticism, offering a profound exploration of the critic’s role in society. Published in 1864, the essay argues for the importance of disinterested criticism as a means of advancing culture and fostering intellectual development. This critical essay examines Arnold’s key arguments, his definition of criticism, and the essay’s broader implications for literature and society.

Arnold’s Definition of Criticism

Arnold defines criticism as “a disinterested endeavor to learn and propagate the best that is known and thought in the world.” This conception of criticism emphasizes objectivity, intellectual rigor, and a commitment to cultural enrichment. For Arnold, the critic must rise above personal biases and partisan interests, seeking instead to engage with ideas and works that contribute to the advancement of human understanding.

In contrast to the view of criticism as a secondary or subordinate activity, Arnold elevates it to a position of central importance. He argues that criticism serves as a vital precursor to creative expression, providing the intellectual and cultural groundwork upon which great literature can be built. This emphasis on the preparatory function of criticism underscores Arnold’s belief in its transformative potential.

The Critic’s Role in Society

Arnold’s essay is deeply concerned with the relationship between criticism and society. He contends that criticism plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and fostering an environment conducive to intellectual and artistic growth. By promoting the free exchange of ideas and challenging prevailing dogmas, criticism helps to cultivate a more informed and enlightened populace.

At the same time, Arnold warns against the dangers of provincialism and narrow-mindedness. He advocates for a cosmopolitan approach to criticism, one that draws on the best ideas and traditions from around the world. This global perspective, Arnold argues, is essential for overcoming the limitations of parochial thinking and achieving a more comprehensive understanding of culture.

Disinterestedness and Intellectual Integrity

A central tenet of Arnold’s essay is the principle of disinterestedness, which he defines as the ability to evaluate ideas and works impartially, without being swayed by personal interests or external pressures. For Arnold, disinterestedness is essential for ensuring the integrity and credibility of criticism.

Arnold’s insistence on disinterestedness reflects his broader concern with the moral and intellectual responsibilities of the critic. He believes that criticism should be guided by a commitment to truth and excellence, rather than by the pursuit of fame, power, or ideological agendas. This ethical dimension of Arnold’s argument underscores the critic’s role as a custodian of cultural values.

The Relationship Between Criticism and Creativity

One of the most provocative aspects of Arnold’s essay is his assertion that criticism is a necessary precondition for creative achievement. He argues that a vibrant and rigorous critical culture is essential for fostering the conditions in which great literature can flourish. Without criticism, Arnold suggests, creative expression risks becoming stagnant and disconnected from the broader currents of thought and culture.

Arnold’s emphasis on the interdependence of criticism and creativity challenges the traditional dichotomy between the two. He rejects the notion that criticism is merely a parasitic activity, instead portraying it as an integral part of the creative process. This holistic view of literary culture highlights the dynamic interplay between analysis and innovation.

Critiques and Limitations

While Arnold’s essay has been widely praised for its intellectual depth and eloquence, it has also faced criticism. Some scholars have questioned the practicality of his ideal of disinterestedness, arguing that complete objectivity is an unattainable ideal. Others have criticized Arnold’s emphasis on the preparatory function of criticism, suggesting that it undervalues the intrinsic merits of creative expression.

Despite these critiques, Arnold’s essay remains a seminal work in the history of literary criticism. Its emphasis on intellectual integrity, cultural enrichment, and the transformative potential of ideas continues to resonate with contemporary readers and scholars.

Conclusion

Matthew Arnold’s “The Function of Criticism at the Present Time” is a compelling and influential exploration of the critic’s role in society. By advocating for disinterestedness, intellectual rigor, and a cosmopolitan approach to culture, Arnold elevates criticism to a position of central importance in the pursuit of truth and excellence. Although his ideas have been subject to debate and reinterpretation, the essay’s enduring significance lies in its affirmation of the power of ideas to shape and enrich human life. As both a historical document and a timeless statement of purpose, Arnold’s essay continues to inspire and challenge those who seek to engage with the complexities of literature and culture.

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