Summary of M. H. Abrams’ Book “The Mirror and the Lamp”

 

         Summary of M. H. Abrams’ Book  “The Mirror and the Lamp”

Introduction

M. H. Abrams’ The Mirror and the Lamp: Romantic Theory and the Critical Tradition (1953) is a seminal work in literary theory and criticism that examines the evolution of literary criticism, particularly focusing on Romanticism. Abrams categorizes literary theories based on their orientation towards four key elements of literature: the work, the artist, the audience, and the universe (reality). His analysis highlights the shift from mimetic to expressive theories of literature.

Key Themes and Ideas:

1.The Four Orientations in Literary Criticism:

A.  Mimetic Theory: Focuses on the relationship between the work and the universe, viewing art as a reflection (mirror) of reality.

B.  Pragmatic Theory: Emphasizes the impact of literature on the audience, aiming to instruct or delight.

C.  Expressive Theory: Prioritizes the relationship between the work and the artist, viewing literature as an expression of the artist’s emotions and imagination.

D.  Objective Theory: Centres on the work itself, independent of its creator, audience, or external reality.

2.Shift from Classicism to Romanticism: Abrams argues that Romanticism marked a paradigm shift in literary theory. While earlier traditions, such as neoclassicism, viewed literature as a mirror reflecting the world, Romanticism viewed it as a lamp projecting the light of the artist’s inner imagination and emotions onto the world.

3.Expression over Mimicry:

Ø Romantic poets like Wordsworth and Coleridge emphasized the role of individual creativity and emotion in literary creation.

Ø Abrams explores how this focus on subjectivity transformed the way literature was written and critiqued.

4.The Role of Imagination:

Ø Abrams delves into the Romantic notion of imagination as the primary creative force, contrasting it with earlier classical ideas of art as imitation.

5.The Historical Development of Literary Criticism:

Ø The book traces the evolution of critical theories from Plato and Aristotle to Romantic poets and critics, analyzing their philosophical underpinnings.

Conclusion

Abrams’ The Mirror and the Lamp is ground breaking for its methodical categorization of literary theories and its analysis of Romanticism’s transformative impact on literary thought. It remains an essential text for students and scholars of literary criticism, offering profound insights into the interplay between literature, philosophy, and aesthetics.

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