LATEST ASSIGNMENT

MEG - 05
LITERARY CRITICISM
& THEORY
(For 2022
(July July, and
2023January
and January,
20232024 session)
Sessions)

Prepared By:
A.R
KEEP JOIN US
WELCOME TO OUR CHANNEL ☺️

HERE WE ARE POST REGARDS:-

👉TECH AWARENESS (WEB/APP) INFO
👉JOB VACANCIES INFO ON DAILY BASES
👉IGNOU INFO
👉WE ALSO HAVE A WHATSAPP GROUP
SPECIALLY FOR BCOMG STUDENT
👉DM ME

SO, PLZZ KEEP JOINING US😊 & KEEP

SUPPORTING US❤️

FOLLOW US ON
HTTPS://T.ME/OFFICI HTTPS://YOUTUBE.C
AL_AW_INFORMER OM/CHANNEL/UCRL
MOMLFRURR6CNQ8Z
X4YWA
 MEG - 05

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH

(MEG)

ASSIGNMENT
(For July, 2023 and January, 2024 session)

LITERARY CRITICISM & THEORY: MEG - 05

School of Humanities
Indira Gandhi National Open University
Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110 068
 ASSIGNMENT
FOR
MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH
Literary Criticism & Theory (MEG – 05)

Programme: MEG
Course Code: MEG - 05

Dear Student

You are required to do one assignment for the elective English course entitled Literary Criticism
and Theory (MEG - 05) of the Master’s Degree in English Programme. This is a Tutor Marked
Assignment (TMA) and carries 100 marks. This assignment covers the entire course of MEG - 05
(Blocks 1 – 8).

Aims: This TMA is concerned mainly with assessing your application and understanding of the
course material. You are not required to reproduce chunks of information from the course
material but to use the skills of critical appreciation that you may have acquired during the
course of study. This assignment aims to teach as well as to assess your performance. Please
ensure that you read all the texts prescribed in the course. Let me repeat: you must read all
the texts/ critical essays prescribed. Do make points as you go along. If there is anything you
do not understand, please ask your Counsellor at the Study Centre for clarification. Once you
are able to do the assignment satisfactorily, you will be ready to take the exam with confidence.

Instructions: Before attempting the assignment, please read the following instructions
carefully.

1. Read the detailed instructions about the assignment given in the Handbook and
Programme Guide.

2. Write your enrolment number, name, full address and date on the top right corner of
the first page of your response sheet(s).

3. Write the course title, assignment number and the name of the study centre you are
attached to in the centre of the first page of your response sheet(s).

The top of the first page of your response sheet should look like this:

ENROLMENT NO: ………………………

NAME: …………………………………..
ADDRESS: ………………………………………………………………
COURSE TITLE: ………………………..
STUDY CENTRE: ……………………..
DATE: …………………………………

4. Use foolscap / A 4 size paper for your response and tag all the pages carefully

5. Write the relevant question number with each answer.

6. You should write in your own handwriting.

2
7. Submission: The completed assignment should be sent to the Coordinator of the Study
Centre allotted to you by 31st March 2024 (if enrolled in the July 2023 Session) and
30th Sept, 2024 (if enrolled in the January 2024 session).

8. Please read the instructions given in your Programme Guide.

Now read the following guidelines carefully before answering questions.

GUIDELINES FOR TMAs

You will find it useful to keep the following points in mind:

1. Planning: Read the questions carefully. Go through the units on which they are based.
Make some points regarding each question and then rearrange these in a logical order.
And please write the answers in your own words. Do not reproduce passages from the
units.

2. Organisation: Be a little more selective and analytic before drawing up a rough

outline of your answer. In an essay-type question, give adequate attention to your
introduction and conclusion. The introduction must offer your brief interpretation of
the question and how you propose to develop it. The conclusion must summarise your
response to the question. In the course of your answer, you may like to make
references to other texts or critics as this will add some depth to your analysis.

Make sure that your answer:

(a) is logical and coherent;

(b) has clear connections between sentences and paragraphs;
(c) is written correctly giving adequate consideration to your expression, style and
presentation;
(e) does not exceed the number of words indicated in your question.

3. Presentation: Once you are satisfied with your answers, you can write down the final
version for submission, writing each answer neatly and underlining the points you wish
to emphasize.

You may be aware that you need to submit your assignments before you can appear for the
Term End Exams. Please remember to keep a copy of your completed assignment, just in
case the one you submitted is lost in transit.

Good luck with your work!

3
 MEG - 05
Literary Criticism & Theory
ASSIGNMENT 2023 - 2024
Based on Blocks (1 – 8)

Max. Marks: 100

Answer all questions.

1. Why does Plato want the artists to be kept away from the ideal state? Discuss.

2. Examine the purpose spontaneity, emotions and personality serve in Wordsworth’s

theory of poetry.

3. Write short notes on the following: 4 x 5 = 20

a) Peripetia
(b) Sphota
(c) Class ideology
(d) Poetic Diction

4. Discuss briefly, the ideas of Marx and Engels on class relations.

5. Comment on Mary Wollstonecraft’s contributions to the rights of women.

4
 Disclaimer:

The AW_INFORMER provides all notes and important questions on our Telegram
channel free of cost. We provide these materials solely for your exam preparation
and not for any commercial purpose. We do not guarantee that your exam
questions will be identical to the materials we provide. However, we can assure
you that these notes and important questions will be helpful for your exam
preparation, and you will perform well in your exams.

We hereby declare that we do not endorse or support any commercial activity

related to the materials we provide on our Telegram channel. Therefore, if
anyone approaches you for selling our assignments, notes, or any other
materials, kindly inform us with proper evidence on our Telegram group. We will
take strict action against such individuals or entities.
Thank you for your trust and support.

Sincerely, AW_INFORMER 😊

MEG 05
Literary Criticism & Theory
The File Provide By – AW_INFORMER

Maximum Marks: 100

Answer all questions.

1. Why does Plato want the artists to be kept away from the ideal state? Discuss.

ANS - Plato, the ancient Greek philosopher, had a complex view of artists and their role in
the ideal state, as outlined in his work "The Republic." In his vision of an ideal society, he
proposed a rigid hierarchical structure with philosopher-kings at the top, followed by
warriors (guardians) and producers.

The artists, particularly poets and playwrights, were to be excluded from this model
state for several reasons:

1. Imitation and Mimesis: Plato believed that artists, especially poets, engaged in
imitation (mimesis) of the physical world. He considered the physical world a mere
shadow of the true reality, the world of Forms or Ideas. According to him, art
imitates this illusionary world and can mislead people from seeking the ultimate
truth and pursuing the highest ideals.
2. Emotional Manipulation: Plato was concerned that art, particularly tragic drama,
could evoke intense emotions in the audience. He feared that these emotions might
lead individuals away from rationality and disturb the harmony of the soul. Plato's
ideal state aimed for citizens to be governed by reason and logic rather than by
emotions.
3. Representation of Gods and Heroes: The portrayal of gods and heroes in myths and
art worried Plato. He believed that these representations often depicted them
engaging in undesirable behaviors, which could influence people to emulate such
behaviors rather than pursuing virtue and ethical conduct.
4. Influence on Morality and Ethics: Plato believed that art's influence on individuals'
 moral and ethical values could be negative. He argued that art might glorify
undesirable qualities or behaviors, which could corrupt the minds of the citizens and
undermine the ethical foundation of the ideal state.
5. Focus on Particulars: Another concern was that artists focused on the particulars of
the physical world rather than seeking the universal and eternal truths. For Plato,
the pursuit of knowledge and understanding the world of Forms was of utmost
importance, and he saw art as diverting people's attention from this noble pursuit.

In Plato's ideal state, education played a crucial role. He advocated for a carefully curated
education system that would mold the citizens' minds, focusing on intellectual and moral
development. The exclusion of artists was part of his broader vision to cultivate a society
where reason governed emotions and individuals were guided by the pursuit of the highest
virtues.

It is essential to note that Plato's views on art were not universally shared, and his ideas
have been subject to criticism over time. Some argue that art can serve as a powerful
means of expression, exploration of ideas, and social commentary, which can be valuable
for society. Plato's strict stance on art reflects his broader philosophical concerns and his
aspiration for an ideal state governed by reason and virtue.

2. Examine the purpose spontaneity, emotions and personality serve in Wordsworth’s

theory of poetry.

ANS - In Wordsworth's theory of poetry, spontaneity, emotions, and personality play pivotal
roles in shaping the essence and significance of poetic expression. Wordsworth, a prominent
figure of the Romantic movement, emphasized the role of the individual poet and the
transformative power of emotions and nature in his poetic philosophy.

Let's examine the purpose of these elements in Wordsworth's theory of poetry:

1. Spontaneity: Wordsworth advocated for spontaneous and natural expression in

poetry. He believed that genuine poetry should arise from the immediate and
unfiltered overflow of emotions and experiences. Spontaneity allowed the poet to
connect with the innermost feelings of the human soul and create authentic verses
that resonated with the readers' hearts.

The purpose of spontaneity in Wordsworth's theory of poetry was to break away from the
artificiality and formality prevalent in poetry of his time. He sought to establish a deeper
connection between the poet, nature, and the readers by allowing emotions to flow freely
and unpretentiously onto the page. Through spontaneity, Wordsworth aimed to create
poetry that captured the essence of human emotions, elevating the ordinary experiences of
life into moments of transcendent beauty.

2. Emotions: Emotions held a central position in Wordsworth's poetic vision. He

believed that genuine poetry must be infused with profound and sincere emotions.
Wordsworth's poems often celebrated a range of emotions, from joy and ecstasy to
sorrow and melancholy. He considered emotions as the purest expression of the
human experience and believed that they held the power to evoke empathy and stir
the readers' emotions as well.

The purpose of emotions in Wordsworth's theory of poetry was to connect the poet, nature,
and the readers on a deeply emotional and spiritual level. By capturing genuine emotions in
his verses, Wordsworth aimed to inspire his readers to reflect on their own feelings and
experiences, fostering a sense of shared humanity and empathy among individuals.

3. Personality: In Wordsworth's theory of poetry, the poet's personality and individual

experiences played a significant role in shaping the poetic expression. He believed
that the poet's personal encounters with nature and life's experiences should inform
their poetry. Wordsworth emphasized the uniqueness of each poet's voice and
 perspective, rejecting the idea of adhering to traditional poetic conventions or
imitating others.

The purpose of personality in Wordsworth's theory of poetry was to celebrate the

individuality of the poet and emphasize the personal connection between the poet and their
subject matter. By infusing their own personality into their works, poets could offer distinct
insights into the human condition and the world around them. This emphasis on
individuality paved the way for a more subjective and personal form of poetry that
celebrated the ordinary and overlooked aspects of life.

3. Write short notes on the following:

a) Peripetia
(b) Sphota
(c) Class ideology
(d) Poetic Diction

ANS - a) Peripetia:
Peripetia is a literary term used in dramatic works, particularly in tragedies. It refers to a
sudden and unexpected reversal of fortune experienced by the protagonist or central
character. In Greek drama, peripetia is a crucial element in the plot, where a character's
circumstances change dramatically, often leading to a shift from a position of strength to
one of vulnerability or vice versa. Peripetia creates tension, surprise, and heightened
emotional impact, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. It is an essential
component in the development of the tragic arc and serves to engage the audience by
exposing the characters to unforeseen challenges or opportunities.

b) Sphota:
Sphota is a linguistic and philosophical concept in Indian linguistic traditions, particularly in
the context of the philosophy of language. It refers to the theoretical sound or abstract
linguistic unit that carries meaning in speech or written language. According to the ancient
Indian philosopher Bhartrihari, sphota is the primal, unchanging, and indivisible unit of
meaning, while the actual sounds or phonemes (dhvani) are its manifestations in the
physical world. The concept of sphota is significant in understanding the relationship
between language and meaning, as it suggests that the true essence of meaning lies beyond
individual phonetic units. It has influenced various schools of linguistic thought in India and
continues to be a subject of interest in the study of semantics and language philosophy.

c) Class Ideology:
Class ideology refers to a set of beliefs, values, and attitudes that are specific to a
particular social class or group within society. It shapes the way individuals within that class
perceive the world, interpret their social position, and understand their roles and
responsibilities. Class ideology is often influenced by economic, political, and cultural
factors and can vary significantly across different social classes. It plays a crucial role in
shaping social stratification, power dynamics, and the collective consciousness of a class.
Class ideology is a subject of study in sociology, political science, and cultural studies, as it
helps in understanding the dynamics of class-based societies and the complexities of class
interactions and conflicts.

d) Poetic Diction:
Poetic diction refers to the specific language, vocabulary, and style used by poets to create
their artistic expressions. It involves the deliberate and skillful use of words, phrases, and
literary devices to convey emotions, imagery, and meaning unique to poetry. Poetic diction
often employs figurative language, metaphors, similes, alliteration, and other stylistic
elements to enhance the aesthetic appeal and emotional impact of the poem. Unlike
everyday language, poetic diction may deviate from standard grammar and syntax to
achieve rhythm, rhyme, and other artistic effects. It allows poets to evoke powerful
emotions, create vivid imagery, and evoke a sense of beauty and complexity beyond
ordinary speech. Poetic diction is an essential aspect of literary analysis and the study of
poetry, as it contributes to the distinctiveness and richness of poetic expression.

4. Discuss briefly, the ideas of Marx and Engels on class relations.

ANS - Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, the founding figures of Marxism, developed a
comprehensive theory on class relations that remains influential in sociology, political
science, and economics. Their ideas revolved around the concept of historical materialism
and the class struggle as a driving force in human history.

Here are the key points of Marx and Engels' ideas on class relations:

1. Historical Materialism: Marx and Engels based their analysis on historical

materialism, a framework that views society's development as primarily driven by
economic factors. They argued that the means of production (such as land,
machinery, and technology) and the mode of production (the social relations
governing how goods are produced and distributed) shape the foundation of society.
Different historical epochs are characterized by distinct modes of production, which
determine the class relations within that society.
2. Class Struggle: According to Marx and Engels, the history of all societies is the
history of class struggle. They identified two primary classes in capitalist societies:
the bourgeoisie (the capitalist class, who own the means of production) and the
proletariat (the working class, who sell their labor to the bourgeoisie). They saw
these classes as being in constant conflict due to their opposing interests: the
bourgeoisie seeking to maximize profit and exploit labor, while the proletariat
aiming to improve working conditions and gain better wages.
3. Exploitation and Alienation: Marx and Engels argued that the capitalist mode of
production led to the exploitation of the working class. They believed that labor is
the source of all value and that capitalists appropriate surplus value (profit) from
the workers' labor. This exploitation results in alienation, where workers become
disconnected from the products of their labor and lose a sense of fulfillment and
purpose in their work.
4. Revolution and the Dictatorship of the Proletariat: Marx and Engels believed that
the class struggle would intensify over time, leading to a revolutionary uprising by
the proletariat. They envisioned a "dictatorship of the proletariat" as a transitional
phase where the working class would take control of the means of production and
create a classless society. In this communist society, the state would wither away,
and everyone would contribute according to their abilities and receive according to
their needs.
5. Critique of Capitalism: Marx and Engels fiercely criticized capitalism, arguing that it
perpetuated inequality, alienation, and exploitation. They saw capitalism as a
system that inherently generates contradictions and crises, leading to periodic
economic downturns and social unrest.

Marx and Engels' ideas on class relations have had a profound impact on social and political
thought. Their analysis of class struggle and exploitation remains relevant in understanding
contemporary social issues and forms the basis for various Marxist and socialist movements
worldwide. While some aspects of their theories have been subject to criticism and
revision, their emphasis on economic factors and class dynamics as drivers of historical
change continues to shape academic and political debates to this day.

5. Comment on Mary Wollstonecraft’s contributions to the rights of women.

ANS - Mary Wollstonecraft, an influential thinker of the 18th century, made significant
contributions to the rights of women through her writings and advocacy. Her ideas and
works laid the groundwork for the feminist movement and played a crucial role in advancing
women's rights and gender equality.

Here are some key contributions of Mary Wollstonecraft:

 1. "A Vindication of the Rights of Woman" (1792): This groundbreaking work is
perhaps Wollstonecraft's most well-known contribution. In it, she argued
passionately for the education and empowerment of women. She criticized
prevailing societal norms that restricted women to domestic roles and argued that
women's intellectual capabilities were equal to men's. Wollstonecraft advocated for
equal access to education for women, stating that educated women would be better
wives, mothers, and active citizens.
2. Challenging Gender Stereotypes: Wollstonecraft was among the first to challenge
the prevailing gender stereotypes that limited women to passive and decorative
roles. She believed that women's true value should be based on their intelligence,
rationality, and contributions to society rather than superficial qualities.
3. Individual Rights and Reason: Wollstonecraft's ideas were deeply rooted in the
Enlightenment philosophy of reason and individual rights. She argued that women,
like men, had inherent rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Her
emphasis on reason and individuality formed a strong foundation for advocating
women's autonomy and agency.
4. Women's Economic Independence: Wollstonecraft recognized the significance of
economic independence for women. She believed that economic dependency on men
subjected women to unequal power dynamics in relationships and society. She
advocated for opportunities for women to earn their livelihoods, which would grant
them greater control over their lives.
5. Influence on Later Feminist Movements: Wollstonecraft's writings and ideas
inspired generations of feminist thinkers and activists. Her work paved the way for
subsequent feminist movements and contributed to the evolving understanding of
women's rights and gender equality throughout history.
6. Challenges to Marriage and Property Laws: In "A Vindication of the Rights of
Woman," Wollstonecraft critiqued the institution of marriage and the laws
surrounding it. She advocated for reforms that would grant women greater legal
rights within marriage and more equitable property laws.
7. Emphasis on Women's Moral and Intellectual Development: Wollstonecraft
believed that a woman's moral and intellectual development was as important as her
physical well-being. She emphasized the importance of nurturing and cultivating
women's minds and character, leading to a more enlightened and harmonious
society.

Mary Wollstonecraft's contributions to the rights of women have had a lasting impact on
feminist thought and social progress. Her ideas challenged the status quo, promoting the
notion of gender equality and women's rightful place as active and engaged participants in
society. Although she faced criticism and opposition during her time, her legacy endures as
a trailblazing advocate for women's rights and a foundational figure in the ongoing fight for
gender equality.