Literary Theory and Criticism: Derrida and Deconstruction

 Hello views 👋

I am Kavita Chauhan, a student of sem 3 M.A. department of English m.k.b.u.

Thinking Activity 

This Blog as part of thinking Activity on unit 1 literary theory and Criticism: Derrida and Deconstruction.

- assigned by Dilip Barad sir

1. Defining Deconstruction:

Q-1.1. • Why is it difficult to define Deconstruction?

Deconstruction is difficult to define because Derrida believed definitions impose limits on understanding. Instead of being destructive, deconstruction examines the foundations and conditions of intellectual systems. It naturally occurs because the same conditions that create these systems also lead to their undoing, a concept Derrida referred to as "différance," highlighting inherent distinctions and differences.

Q-1.2. • Is Deconstruction a negative term?

No, Deconstruction is not negative term.

Q-1.3. • How does Deconstruction happen on its own?

Deconstruction happens on its own because the same conditions that create intellectual systems also inherently contain the seeds of their undoing. This concept, called "différance" by Derrida, emphasizes the natural emergence of contradictions and instabilities within systems that lead to their deconstruction without external intervention.

2. Heideggar and Derrida:

Q-2.1. • The influence of Heidegger on Derrida

Heidegger significantly influenced Derrida, particularly in challenging traditional Western philosophical views on being and language. Heidegger's ideas about language as speaking itself, not just a tool of human expression, deeply influenced Derrida's critique of "metaphysics of presence" and "logo-centrism."

Q-2.2. • Derridean rethinking of the foundations of Western philosophy

Derrida rethinks Western philosophy by deconstructing traditional ideas like presence and identity, challenging the stability of language and meaning, and advocating for a view where interpretations are contextually fluid rather than fixed.

3. Saussure and Derrida:

Q-3.1. • Ferdinand de Saussureian concept of language (that meaning is arbitrary, relational, constitutive)

Saussureian concept of language states that:

Arbitrariness: There's no inherent connection between words and their meanings.

Relational: Meanings derive from differences between words within the language system.

Constitutive: Language constructs our understanding of reality rather than simply reflecting it.

Q-3.2. • How Derrida deconstructs the idea of arbitrariness?

Derrida deconstructs arbitrariness by showing that meanings are not purely arbitrary but are influenced by historical and cultural contexts, and that they are fluid and contextually contingent rather than fixed and stable.

Q-3.3. • Concept of metaphysics of presence

The "metaphysics of presence" prioritizes the immediate presence or essence of things over their absence or representation, emphasizing what is tangible and fixed. Derrida critiques this by highlighting how language and meaning are shaped by absence and interpretation, challenging the notion of fixed truths.

4. DifferAnce:

Q-4.1. • Derridean concept of DifferAnce

DifferAnce" refers to Derrida's concept where meaning arises through differences between words and concepts rather than fixed identities. It also highlights how meaning is deferred and constantly evolving, challenging the idea of stable, fixed meanings in language and philosophy.

Q-4.2. • Infinite play of meaning

The "infinite play of meaning" refers to Derrida's view that meaning in language is constantly shifting and evolving, challenging the idea of fixed and stable meanings.

Q-4.3. • DIfferAnce = to differ + to defer

DifferAnce" in Derrida's philosophy combines the French words "différer" (to differ) and "déferer" (to defer).

5. Structure, Sign and Play:

Q-5.1. • Structure, Sign and Play in the Discourse of the Human Sciences

Structure, Sign, and Play in the Discourse of the Human Sciences" is an influential essay by Jacques Derrida. In it, he examines the nature of structuralism, particularly in the context of anthropology and linguistics. Derrida critiques the belief in underlying structures that provide fixed meanings and identities, arguing instead for the deconstruction of such systems. He discusses how signs and meanings are constantly deferred and interconnected, challenging the notion of stable foundations in human sciences. This essay is pivotal in understanding Derrida's approach to language, meaning, and interpretation.

Q-5.2. • Explain: "Language bears within itself the necessity of its own critique."

The statement "Language bears within itself the necessity of its own critique" means that language, as a system of communication and meaning, contains inherent flaws, ambiguities, and contradictions. These aspects necessitate continuous examination and questioning of how language constructs and influences our understanding of the world. Derrida argues that by critiquing language, we can uncover its limitations, biases, and underlying assumptions, thereby revealing new perspectives and interpretations. This process of critique is essential for understanding the complexities and dynamics of language and its role in shaping human thought and interaction.

6. Yale School:

Q-6.1. • The Yale School: the hub of the practitioners of Deconstruction in the literary theories

The Yale School refers to a group of scholars at Yale University who became known for their engagement with deconstruction in literary theory. Led by critics such as Paul de Man, J. Hillis Miller, Geoffrey Hartman, and Harold Bloom, among others, the Yale School played a significant role in introducing and interpreting Jacques Derrida's deconstructive philosophy within literary studies. Their work focused on challenging traditional interpretations of texts by examining language, meaning, and interpretation through the lens of deconstruction, influencing literary criticism profoundly in the latter half of the 20th century.

Q-6.2. • The characteristics of the Yale School of Deconstruction

 Firstly, looking at literature as rhetorical or figurative construct .

Secondly, they question both the aesthetic as well as formalist approach to literature ; and also question the historist or socialist approach to literature.

Third important characteristic of yale school is their preoccupation with romanticism 

7. Other Schools and Deconstruction:

Q-7.1. • How other schools like New Historicism, Cultural Materialism, Feminism, Marxism and Postcolonial theorists used Deconstruction?

Other schools of literary theory, such as New Historicism, Cultural Materialism, Feminism, Marxism, and Postcolonialism, have engaged with deconstruction in various ways:

New Historicism: Uses deconstruction to analyze how texts reflect and contest historical contexts and ideologies.

Cultural Materialism: Applies deconstruction to critique power structures and social contexts reflected in literature and culture.

Feminism: Utilizes deconstruction to expose and challenge gendered assumptions and power dynamics in texts.

Marxism: Engages with deconstruction to critique capitalist ideologies and class inequalities in literature.

Postcolonialism: Uses deconstruction to critique colonial histories and representations in literature, challenging hegemonic narratives.

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The Book review view of the novel "The Seven husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid.

Hello views 👋

I am Kavita Chauhan, a student of sem 3 M.A. department of English m.k.b.u.

This Blog is written as book review of the novel the seven husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid. this book review written for passion...✍️✨. 📚 

Book review: "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo"

• Introduction:

 Taylor Jenkins Reid’s novel "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" is a mesmerizing journey through the life of Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo, blending glamor with profound introspection. Published in 2017, this book has garnered widespread acclaim for its compelling narrative and complex characters, offering readers a glimpse into the hidden truths behind fame and the intricacies of love.

“It's always been fascinating to me how things can be simultaneously true and false, how people can be good and bad all in one, how someone can love you in a way that is beautifully selfless while serving themselves ruthlessly"

• Plot and Structure:

The novel is structured around a dual narrative, with Evelyn Hugo, an aging and reclusive movie star, choosing unknown journalist Monique Grant to write her biography. Through a series of interviews, Evelyn reveals the secrets of her extraordinary life, focusing on her seven marriages and the sacrifices she made to achieve stardom. Each husband represents a distinct phase in Evelyn's evolution, providing a framework that showcases the highs and lows of her career and personal life.

• Characters:

Evelyn Hugo emerges as a brilliantly crafted protagonist whose allure lies not only in her glamor but also in her vulnerability and ambition. From her humble beginnings as Evelyn Herrera to her transformation into a ruthless yet empathetic Hollywood legend, Evelyn's journey is captivating. Her relationships, particularly with her true love Celia St. James, offer poignant insights into identity, sexuality, and the compromises demanded by fame.

Monique Grant serves as an effective foil to Evelyn, initially unsure of her role but gradually uncovering parallels between her own life and Evelyn’s narrative. Monique's growth throughout the story adds depth, as her journey from passive observer to empowered storyteller mirrors Evelyn’s own quest for agency and authenticity.

In Taylor Jenkins Reid's novel "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo," the title refers to the seven men who were married to the protagonist, Evelyn Hugo, throughout her life. Each husband plays a significant role in Evelyn's personal and professional journey, influencing her choices, ambitions, and identity.

The seven husbands are:

 1. Ernie Diaz: Evelyn's first husband, whom she marries at a young age to escape her difficult family situation. Their marriage is short-lived but leaves a lasting impact on Evelyn.

2. Don Adler: A famous actor who becomes Evelyn's second husband. Their marriage is heavily influenced by career ambitions and public image.

3. Mick Riva: A charismatic singer and Hollywood heartthrob, Mick is Evelyn's third husband. Their relationship is passionate but tumultuous.

4. Rex North: A talented actor and director, Rex is Evelyn's fourth husband. Their marriage is marked by professional collaboration and personal complications.

5. Harry Cameron: A playwright and screenwriter, Harry is Evelyn's fifth husband. Their relationship is deeply intertwined with their creative endeavors.

6. Max Girard: A renowned film producer, Max is Evelyn's sixth husband. Their marriage is strategically beneficial for both Evelyn's career and Max's ambitions.

7. Robert Jamison: A renowned senator, Robert is Evelyn's seventh and final husband. Their marriage is significant for Evelyn's public image and political ambitions.

Each husband represents a different phase of Evelyn Hugo's life, offering insights into her character, motivations, and the sacrifices she makes in pursuit of success and love. While the marriages vary in duration and intensity, they collectively shape Evelyn's narrative and illustrate the complexities of her journey through fame and personal fulfillment.

• Themes:

At its core, "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo'' explores themes of love, ambition, identity, and the price of success. Reid skillfully navigates the complexities of Evelyn’s relationships, portraying both the allure and pitfalls of fame. The novel’s portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships in 20th-century America is particularly poignant, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals like Evelyn and Celia in a conservative society.

• Writing Style:

Reid’s prose is elegant yet accessible, drawing readers into Evelyn's glamorous world while subtly critiquing the underbelly of Hollywood’s golden age. The alternating timelines between Evelyn’s past and Monique’s present create a dynamic narrative flow, maintaining suspense and emotional resonance throughout.

• Social Commentary:

Beyond its narrative allure, "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" offers incisive commentary on gender, race, and power dynamics within the entertainment industry. Evelyn’s manipulation of her image and relationships underscores the sacrifices demanded of women in male-dominated spaces, making the novel a timely exploration of systemic inequalities in Hollywood and beyond.

•Conclusion:

In conclusion, "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" is a masterful work of contemporary fiction that transcends its Hollywood setting to deliver a profound meditation on identity, ambition, and the complexities of love. Taylor Jenkins Reid’s storytelling prowess shines through her richly developed characters and thought-provoking themes, ensuring that this novel leaves a lasting impression on its readers. Whether you’re drawn to its glamour, its emotional depth, or its social commentary, "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" is a must-read that reaffirms the power of storytelling to illuminate the human experience.

Rating: 5/5 stars

This novel is a testament to Reid’s ability to blend entertainment with introspection, offering readers an unforgettable journey through the highs and lows of fame, love, and self-discovery.

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