Historical Criticism

By: Carlson B Dasmarinas

What is Historical Criticism
Historical Criticism:
Uncovering the Past
Historical criticism is the study of literary texts within their historical context. It
examines how the author's life, the time period, and cultural influences shaped
the work's creation and meaning.
Definition of Historical Criticism
1 Analyzing the 2 Assessing Authorial 3 Interpreting
Context Intent Meaning
Historical criticism It seeks to understand Historical criticism
explores the historical, the author's purpose provides insights into
cultural, and social and motivations for the true meaning and
factors that influenced a writing the text. significance of a literary
literary work. work.
Origins of Historical Criticism
Classical Antiquity 1
The foundations of historical criticism
can be traced back to ancient Greek
and Roman thinkers who analyzed 2 Renaissance Humanism
literary works in their historical During the Renaissance, scholars
contexts. revived the study of classical texts,
leading to a renewed interest in
Enlightenment Scholarship 3 understanding literature through its
In the 18th century, the historical background.
Enlightenment period further
developed historical criticism,
emphasizing the importance of
objectivity and empirical analysis.
When Did Historical Criticism Begin?
Classical Antiquity
The roots of historical criticism can be traced back to ancient Greek and Roman scholars,
such as Aristotle and Cicero, who analyzed literary works in their historical contexts.

Renaissance Humanism
During the Renaissance, scholars like Erasmus and Casaubon revived the study of
classical texts, leading to a renewed interest in understanding literature through its
historical background.

Enlightenment Scholarship
In the 18th century, the Enlightenment period further developed historical criticism,
emphasizing the importance of objectivity and empirical analysis of literary works.
When Did Historical Criticism Gain
Popularity?
19th Century
Historical criticism gained
widespread popularity during
the 19th century, as scholars
increasingly recognized the
importance of understanding
literature within its historical
context.
Romantic Movement
The Romantic movement,
with its emphasis on
individualism and historical
consciousness, further
contributed to the rise of
historical criticism as a
dominant approach to
literary analysis.
Modern Era
Today, historical criticism
remains a central and
influential methodology in
the field of literary studies,
providing valuable insights
into the creation and
meaning of literary works.
The Goal of Historical Criticism
Uncover Context
Historical criticism aims to
understand the historical,
cultural, and social factors that
influenced the creation of a
literary work.
Understand Authorial
Intent
It seeks to discern the author's
motivations, beliefs, and
perspectives that shaped the
content and form of the text.
Interpret Meaning
Historical criticism ultimately
provides a deeper and more
nuanced understanding of the
true meaning and significance
of a literary work.