The Formalist School of Criticism

The Formalist School of Criticism focuses on analyzing a work’s internal elements—such as structure, language, form, and style—rather than external factors like the author’s background or historical context. It emphasizes understanding how these formal features contribute to the work’s meaning and aesthetic qualities. Essentially, formalists believe that a literary or artistic piece should be judged by how effectively its form and technique create impact and coherence, highlighting the craftsmanship involved in its creation. This approach encourages close, detailed examination of the work itself, independent of outside influences.