Post-Structuralism Literary Theory..pptx

A PPT on the Post-Structuralism Theory

1. POST-STRUCTURALISM

2. POST-STRUCTURALISM POST STRUCTURALISM is an intellectual movement in philosophy from France during the 1960s and 1970s that challenged the belief in stable or unchanging meanings and identities. It is closely related to Post-Modernism .

3. POST-STRUCTURALISM It refers to a way of thinking that emphasizes the radical uncertainty of knowledge (particularly knowledge in language) and posits that “truth” is not a fixed concept , but instead constantly changes based on your cultural , political , social , and economic position  in the world.

4. PROPONENTS Jacques Derrida Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 1915 - 1980 Roland Barthes

5. 1915 - 1980 Jacques Derrida Roland Barthes Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 Barthes, originally a confirmed Structuralist , is a French literary theorist, philosopher and semiotician . Barthes played a pivotal role in challenging traditional literary criticism and advocating for a more reader-centered approach .

6. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF BARTHES’ POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 1. DEATH OF THE AUTHOR Observation: Barthes famously declared the "Death of the Author" in his essay of the same name. He argued against the traditional notion that the author's intentions and biography should be the primary determinants of a text's meaning. Instead, he proposed focusing on the active role of the reader in interpreting and constructing meaning. Implications: This concept challenges the authority of the author, emphasizing the plurality of interpretations and the role of the reader's subjective engagement with the text. It encourages a more open-ended and democratic approach to literary analysis.

7. DEATH OF THE AUTHOR Upton Sinclair wrote  The Jungle  as a criticism of the American meat-packing industry in order to help the terrible conditions of the workers .  Instead, it added more laws that forced a much more strenuous, yet cleaner working environment . He later went on to say "I had aimed for the heart of the American public, and hit them in the stomach by mistake." 

8. Jacques Derrida Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 2. MYTHOLOGIES Observation: In his work "Mythologies," Barthes examined how everyday objects, practices, and cultural phenomena function as myths in society. He argued that these myths contribute to the construction of meaning and shape cultural ideologies. Implications: Barthes' analysis of myths demonstrates how seemingly ordinary aspects of culture carry layers of symbolic meaning. This approach aligns with post-structuralism by revealing the constructed nature of cultural symbols and challenging fixed meanings. KEY ASPECTS OF BARTHES’ POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS:

9. MYTHOLOGIES

10. E XAMPLE: “ THE GREAT GATSBY ” by F. SCOTT FITZGERALD CONCEPT OF MYTH THEMES: American Dream as Myth: Barthes' approach scrutinizes the American Dream's portrayal in the novel, revealing its symbolic and cultural dimensions. Symbols and Signifiers: Barthes' idea of symbols and signifiers applies to Gatsby's green light, the Valley of Ashes, and lavish parties, uncovering layers of meaning. Cultural Icons and Celebrity: Barthes' insights illuminate how Jay Gatsby becomes a cultural icon, exploring the mythmaking around his mysterious persona. Consumer Culture: Barthes' analysis of consumer culture fits with the novel's depiction of materialism, excess, and conspicuous consumption in the Jazz Age.

11. Jacques Derrida Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 3. SEMIOTICS AND SIGNIFICATION: Observation: Barthes was deeply engaged in semiotics, the study of signs and symbols. He explored the ways in which signs operate within language and culture, emphasizing the arbitrariness of linguistic signs. Implications: This emphasis on semiotics aligns with the post-structuralist rejection of fixed meanings. Barthes' exploration of signs contributes to the broader post-structuralist project of questioning the stability of language and meaning. KEY ASPECTS OF BARTHES’ POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS:

12. E XAMPLE: “ THE SCARLET LETTER ” by NATHANIEL HAWTHORNE SEMIOTICS AND SIGNIFICATION THEMES Scarlet Letter "A": A semiotic examination of Hester Prynne's scarlet letter reveals it as a signifier with diverse meanings, symbolizing adultery, sin, shame, societal judgment, and eventual redemption. Color Symbolism: Colors in the novel, like the scarlet letter, serve as signifiers. Red signifies passion and sin, while green represents nature and new beginnings, providing a nuanced semiotic analysis. Puritan Symbols: Puritan symbols like the prison door and scaffold carry moral and religious values, analyzed through semiotics as signifiers reflecting societal norms of the time. Names as Signifiers: Character names, such as Hester Prynne and Arthur Dimmesdale, act as linguistic signs. Semiotic analysis explores how these names carry cultural and historical meanings, contributing to character identity and thematic development.

13. Jacques Derrida Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 4. READER-RESPONSE THEORY Observation: Barthes' ideas contribute to the development of reader-response theory within post-structuralism. He emphasized the importance of the reader's active engagement in the production of meaning and the creation of a text's significance. Implications: This perspective challenges the idea that a text has a single, fixed meaning determined by the author. Instead, meaning is contingent on the reader's interpretation, cultural context, and personal experiences. KEY ASPECTS OF BARTHES’ POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS:

14. E XAMPLE: “ FRANKENSTEIN ” by MARY SHELLEY READER-RESPONSE THEMES Creation and Morality: Reader responses to Victor's creation of the creature vary, with some empathizing with the creature's isolation and others focusing on the ethical implications of Victor's actions. Empathy for the Creature: Reader-response theory suggests diverse emotional responses to the creature's struggles, ranging from empathy to fear or revulsion. Moral Dilemmas: Shelley's exploration of moral dilemmas, like a creator's responsibility, allows for varied reader interpretations of characters' motivations and actions. Framing Narrative Choices: Multiple narrators in "Frankenstein" offer different perspectives, influencing how readers perceive characters. Some may sympathize with Victor, while others align with the creature's narrative.

15. Jacques Derrida Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 5. INTERTEXTUALITY Observation: Barthes explored the concept of intertextuality, highlighting the interconnectedness of texts. He argued that no text exists in isolation, and meanings are shaped by the network of other texts. Implications: This observation contributes to the post-structuralist understanding of the fluid and dynamic nature of meaning. It suggests that texts are in constant dialogue with each other, and their significance is contingent on their relationships within a broader cultural context. KEY ASPECTS OF BARTHES’ POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS:

16. E XAMPLE: “ WIDE SARGASSO SEA ” by JEAN RHYS I NTERTEXTUALITY THEMES Dialoguing with "Jane Eyre": Rhys reimagines Bertha Mason, central to Brontë's "Jane Eyre," offering an alternative perspective in a complex intertextual conversation. Colonial and Postcolonial Contexts: Rhys uses intertextuality to explore colonial and postcolonial themes, setting the novel in Jamaica during slavery, intersecting with "Jane Eyre's" narrative. Subverting Tropes: Through intertextuality, Rhys challenges tropes established in "Jane Eyre," giving agency to the madwoman in the attic and subverting reader expectations. Multiple Perspectives: Intertextuality allows for exploration of multiple perspectives, as Rhys weaves echoes of Brontë's text, providing readers a layered experience with diverse voices.

17. PROPONENTS Jacques Derrida Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 1915 - 1980 Roland Barthes

18. 1915 - 1980 Jacques Derrida Roland Barthes Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 *Barthes is a French literary theorist, philosopher and semiotician. * Barthes played a pivotal role in challenging traditional literary criticism and advocating for a more reader-centered approach . His essay “ Death of the Author ” is a landmark work in post-structuralist thought, arguing against the authority of the author in determining a text’s meaning. Derrida was an Algerian-born French philosopher . Derrida is widely associated with Deconstruction , a method of textual analysis that seeks to expose and destabilize hierarchical oppositions within the language . He emphasized the inherent instability and multiple meanings in texts , challenging the notion of fixed meanings and linguistics binaries.

19. 1915 - 1980 Jacques Derrida Roland Barthes Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 *Barthes is a French literary theorist, philosopher and semiotician. * Barthes played a pivotal role in challenging traditional literary criticism and advocating for a more reader-centered approach . His essay “ Death of the Author ” is a landmark work in post-structuralist thought, arguing against the authority of the author in determining a text’s meaning. Différance : Derrida introduced the term " différance " to highlight the constant deferral and difference that characterize language . This concept challenges traditional notions of stable meaning. Notable Works on Deconstruction (1967): * Of Grammatology *Writing and Difference *Speech and Phenomena

20. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF DERRIDA’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 1. DECONSTRUCTION Observation: Derrida is perhaps best known for the concept of deconstruction, a method of textual analysis that seeks to expose and dismantle binary oppositions within a text. He argued that language and texts are characterized by inherent contradictions and that meanings are not stable but constantly deferred. Implications: Deconstruction challenges the idea of fixed meanings and hierarchical oppositions. Derrida's work encourages a close examination of language, revealing the instability and multiplicity of interpretations within a text.

21. E XAMPLE: “ THE SOUND AND THE FURY ” by WILLIAM FAULKNER Deconstruction Themes: Fragmentation and Subjectivity: The novel's fragmented narrative reflects Derrida's idea of language as inherently unstable, emphasizing subjectivity in each character's perspective. Language as Unstable Signifiers: Faulkner's use of stream-of-consciousness mirrors Derrida's concept of language instability, where words take on multiple, shifting meanings. Temporal Disruptions: The novel's non-linear timeline challenges conventional narrative structures, aligning with Derrida's emphasis on the fluidity of meaning across different temporal planes. Binary Oppositions and Deconstruction: Faulkner deconstructs binary oppositions, such as order and chaos, revealing the interconnected nature of seemingly opposite concepts.

22. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF DERRIDA’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 2. DIFFÉRANCE Observation: Derrida introduced the term " différance ," a play on the French words " différer " (to differ) and "defer" (to delay). This concept encapsulates the idea that meaning is always deferred and never fully present. Words gain their significance through their differences from other words. Implications: Différance underscores the inherent complexity of language and the impossibility of arriving at a definitive and stable meaning. It challenges the notion that language can represent a fixed reality without ambiguity.

23. E XAMPLE: “ TO THE LIGHTHOUSE ” by VIRGINIA WOOLF Diff érance Themes: Temporal Différance : Woolf's fluid narrative structure intertwines past, present, and future, reflecting Derrida's idea of temporal différance . Language and Meaning: The novel explores the interplay of signifiers and signifieds , aligning with Derrida's notion that language's meaning is deferred and context-dependent. Subjectivity and Identity: Characters' shifting perspectives challenge fixed identities, illustrating the fluid nature of selfhood. Unattainable Truth: "To the Lighthouse" suggests an elusive, deferred truth, echoing Derrida's concept that meaning is always in flux and cannot be fixed.

24. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF DERRIDA’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 3. LOGOCENTRISM Observation: Derrida critiqued logocentrism, the philosophical tradition that privileges speech (logos) over writing. He argued that this bias has far-reaching implications for how meaning is understood and valued in Western thought. Implications: By challenging logocentrism, Derrida questioned the hierarchy between speech and writing. This critique has implications for how we understand the authority and value assigned to different forms of communication.

25. E XAMPLE: “ HAMLET ” by WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE Logocentric Themes: Power of Speech and Reason: Hamlet's eloquent soliloquies highlight the play's emphasis on the potency of language and reason. Dichotomy of Word and Deed: The tension between Hamlet's contemplation of words and his inaction underscores logocentric traditions that prioritize speech over action. Philosophical Reflections: Hamlet's deep pondering on existence and morality reflects logocentrism, placing a heavy emphasis on the spoken word as a means of grappling with profound questions. Importance of Oaths and Vows: The plot revolves around characters' oaths and promises, showcasing logocentrism's belief in the binding nature of spoken words.

26. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF DERRIDA’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 4. UNDECIDABILITY Observation: Derrida often discussed the concept of undecidability, suggesting that certain aspects of language and meaning resist clear determinations. This idea contributes to the post-structuralist view that interpretation is always open-ended and cannot be definitively resolved. Implications: Undecidability challenges the idea of a fixed and determinate meaning within a text, emphasizing the ambiguity and complexity of language.

27. E XAMPLE: “ ALICE IN WONDERLAND ” by LEWIS CARROLL Undecidability Themes: Language and Meaning: Characters use words unconventionally, challenging stable meanings and reflecting Derrida's concept of undecidability. Mad Hatter's Tea Party: The absurd conversations and ambiguous time in the tea party embody undecidability, illustrating the instability of language and interpretation. Cheshire Cat's Smile: The disappearing Cheshire Cat's smile introduces ambiguity, challenging the stability of presence and absence, echoing Derrida's ideas. Fluctuating Identities: Characters' shifts in size and identity challenge fixed meanings, aligning with Derrida's emphasis on undecidability in identity and meaning.

28. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF DERRIDA’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 5. ARCHIVE AND TRACE Observation: Derrida explored the notions of archive and trace, emphasizing the role of memory and absence in the construction of meaning. The archive is not only a repository of information but also a site where meanings are constructed and contested. Implications: This concept contributes to the understanding that texts and cultural artifacts are not neutral repositories of meaning but are actively engaged in the production and dissemination of cultural values.

29. E XAMPLE: “ FUNES THE MEMORIOUS ” by JORGE LUIS BORGES In Borges' " Funes the Memorious," the protagonist, Ireneo Funes , embodies the concepts of archive and trace. Funes possesses an exhaustive memory, functioning as a human archive. However, the sheer volume of memories leads to a fragmentation of experience, highlighting the ineffability of complete recall. Funes becomes a living archive, showcasing the richness of memory, but also revealing the challenges and limitations inherent in preserving the entirety of one's experiences. The story prompts reflection on the complexities of memory, the dual nature of archives, and the elusive traces that persist beyond even the most comprehensive recollections.

30. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF DERRIDA’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 6. CONTEXTUALIZATION AND ITERABILITY Observation: Derrida emphasized the importance of context and iterability, suggesting that the meaning of a sign or text is dependent on its context and is subject to repetition and recontextualization. Implications: Iterability challenges the idea of a fixed, context-independent meaning. It underscores the dynamic relationship between signs and their various contexts of use.

31. E XAMPLE: “ THE SOUND AND THE FURY ” by WILLIAM FAULKNER Shifting Perspectives: Multiple narrators offer unique viewpoints, emphasizing the role of context in shaping meaning. Temporal Complexity: The non-linear narrative iterates events, highlighting how context influences interpretation over time. Repetition of Motifs: Recurring symbols take on different meanings in various contexts, showcasing the iterability of motifs. Character Identity and Context: Characters' identities unfold in different contexts, emphasizing how the same traits can be perceived differently.

32. PROPONENTS Jacques Derrida Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 1915 - 1980 Roland Barthes

33. 1915 - 1980 Jacques Derrida Roland Barthes Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 *Barthes is a French literary theorist, philosopher and semiotician. * Barthes played a pivotal role in challenging traditional literary criticism and advocating for a more reader-centered approach . His essay “ Death of the Author ” is a landmark work in post-structuralist thought, arguing against the authority of the author in determining a text’s meaning. *Derrida was an Algerian-born French philosopher . * Derrida is widely associated with deconstruction , a method of textual analysis that seeks to expose and destabilize hierarchical oppositions within the language. He emphasized the inherent instability and multiple meanings in texts, challenging the notion of fixed meanings and linguistics binaries. Foucault is a French philosopher , social theorist , and historian of ideas . Foucault’s work focused on the relationship between Power , Knowledge , and Discourse . He analyzed how institutions shape knowledge and influence societal norms . His ideas have had a profound impact on fields such as sociology , cultural studies , and political theory .

34. 1915 - 1980 Jacques Derrida Roland Barthes Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 *Barthes is a French literary theorist, philosopher and semiotician. * Barthes played a pivotal role in challenging traditional literary criticism and advocating for a more reader-centered approach . His essay “ Death of the Author ” is a landmark work in post-structuralist thought, arguing against the authority of the author in determining a text’s meaning. *Derrida was an Algerian-born French philosopher . * Derrida is widely associated with deconstruction , a method of textual analysis that seeks to expose and destabilize hierarchical oppositions within the language. He emphasized the inherent instability and multiple meanings in texts, challenging the notion of fixed meanings and linguistics binaries. His book " The Archaeology of Knowledge " explores the historical development of various forms of knowledge . Discourse Analysis: Foucault's approach to discourse analysis emphasizes how language constructs social reality . He examined how discourses, or systems of knowledge, contribute to the exercise of power .

35. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF FOUCAULT’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 1. POWER/KNOWLEDGE Observation: Foucault explored the intricate relationship between power and knowledge. He argued that knowledge is not neutral but is deeply intertwined with power structures. Institutions, such as prisons, schools, and hospitals, produce and reinforce particular forms of knowledge that serve to maintain power. Implications: This perspective challenges traditional notions of knowledge as objective and highlights the ways in which power operates through the production and dissemination of knowledge.

36. E XAMPLE: “ 1984 ” by GEORGE ORWELL Totalitarian Control: Orwell's depiction of the Party in "1984" illustrates Foucault's concept of power. The Party exerts control not only through physical force but also by manipulating knowledge and shaping the narrative to maintain dominance. Surveillance and Discipline: The pervasive surveillance in the novel reflects Foucault's ideas on disciplinary power. The constant monitoring of citizens enforces conformity and controls behavior, showcasing how knowledge is wielded as a tool of power. Manipulation of Truth: The Party's ability to manipulate historical records and control information aligns with Foucault's notion of power/knowledge. The Party not only exercises authority through force but also through its control over what is considered true and factual. Normalization of Discourse: The use of Newspeak in "1984" illustrates the normalization of discourse to control thought. This linguistic manipulation embodies Foucault's idea that power operates through the regulation of language and knowledge.

37. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF FOUCAULT’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 2. DISCOURSE AND EPISTEMES Observation: Foucault examined the concept of discourse, emphasizing how language and systems of knowledge shape our understanding of reality. He introduced the idea of epistemes, which are historical formations of knowledge that define the conditions of what can be known at a particular time. Implications: The concept of discourse underscores the role of language in constructing reality, while the notion of epistemes emphasizes the historical contingency of knowledge and the changing nature of what is considered "true."

38. E XAMPLE: “ FRANKENSTEIN ” by MARY SHELLEY Scientific Discourse: Shelley's novel engages with the scientific discourse of the time. Victor Frankenstein's experiments and the discussions around them reflect the episteme of scientific advancement in the 19th century. Narrative Perspectives: The use of multiple narrative perspectives in the novel introduces different discourses. The letters from Walton, Victor's narration, and the creature's own account contribute to the construction of varied epistemes within the narrative. Social and Moral Discourse: Shelley explores societal and moral discourses surrounding scientific innovation. The reactions of characters and society to Victor's creation reflect the prevailing epistemes regarding the ethical implications of scientific pursuits. Questioning Knowledge: The novel raises questions about the limits of knowledge and the consequences of pushing scientific boundaries. This reflects a broader episteme of the time that questioned the ethical dimensions of scientific progress.

39. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF FOUCAULT’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 3 . BIO-POWER AND GOVERNMENTALITY Observation: Foucault introduced the concepts of bio-power and governmentality to analyze how modern states regulate populations. Bio-power focuses on the management of life and populations, while governmentality examines the ways in which governments exercise control and influence over individuals. Implications: These concepts highlight the ways in which power is exercised not only through explicit political structures but also through the regulation of individuals and populations in various aspects of life.

40. E XAMPLE: “ THE HANDMAID’S TALE by MARGARET ATWOOD Control Over Reproduction: The government exercises biopower by regulating women's reproductive capacities, exemplified by the institution of handmaids whose bodies are controlled for state interests. Surveillance and Discipline: Governmentality is depicted through surveillance and discipline, enforced by entities like the Eyes and Aunts, regulating individuals' behavior within the societal framework. Institutionalized Gender Roles: The novel explores governmentality in the institutionalization of gender roles, classifying women into specific societal functions based on fertility. Language and Ideological Control: Ideological control is achieved through language manipulation, including renaming and specific terminology, highlighting how governmentality extends into shaping perceptions.

41. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF FOUCAULT’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 4. PANOPTICISM Observation: In his work "Discipline and Punish," Foucault introduced the concept of the panopticon, a metaphor for the modern disciplinary society. The panopticon is a prison design where a central observer can see all inmates without them knowing whether they are being observed. Implications: The panopticon illustrates the internalization of surveillance and discipline, suggesting that individuals modify their behavior when they believe they are being watched. This concept has been widely applied to discussions of surveillance and control in modern society.

42. E XAMPLE: “ 1984 ” by GEORGE ORWELL Surveillance State: In the dystopian society of Oceania, the government, led by the Party, implements pervasive surveillance. The telescreens and the watchful eye of Big Brother exemplify the panopticon's central idea of constant observation. Internalization of Surveillance: The citizens of Oceania are aware of the omnipresent surveillance, and the fear of being observed at all times leads to self-policing. This internalization of the surveillance mechanism aligns with the panoptic concept of individuals regulating their behavior in anticipation of being watched. Lack of Privacy: The absence of private spaces and the constant visibility of citizens create an environment where everyone is potentially subject to scrutiny. This lack of privacy is a key element of panopticism , fostering a culture of perpetual surveillance. Control Through Fear: The Party's use of surveillance is not only for gathering information but also for maintaining control through fear. The uncertainty of being observed contributes to a sense of powerlessness among the citizens, reinforcing the panoptic structure.

43. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF FOUCAULT’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 5. ARCHAEOLOGY OF KNOWLEDGE Observation: Foucault developed the archaeological method, which involves uncovering the historical conditions of knowledge production and examining the discursive formations that shape particular periods. Implications: This method challenges linear historical narratives and encourages an investigation of the conditions that make certain forms of knowledge possible at specific points in history.

44. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF FOUCAULT’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 6. POWER/KNOWLEDGE NEXUS IN INSTITUTIONS Observation: Foucault examined how institutions, such as prisons, hospitals, and asylums, function as sites where power and knowledge intersect. These institutions are key players in shaping societal norms and regulating individuals. Implications: Foucault's analysis of institutions contributes to a critical understanding of how power operates in everyday practices and how certain forms of knowledge are institutionalized.

45. PROPONENTS Jacques Derrida Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 1915 - 1980 Roland Barthes

46. 1915 - 1980 Jacques Derrida Roland Barthes Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 *Barthes is a French literary theorist, philosopher and semiotician. * Barthes played a pivotal role in challenging traditional literary criticism and advocating for a more reader-centered approach . His essay “ Death of the Author ” is a landmark work in post-structuralist thought, arguing against the authority of the author in determining a text’s meaning. *Derrida was an Algerian-born French philosopher . * Derrida is widely associated with deconstruction , a method of textual analysis that seeks to expose and destabilize hierarchical oppositions within the language. He emphasized the inherent instability and multiple meanings in texts, challenging the notion of fixed meanings and linguistics binaries. *Foucault is a French philosopher , social theorist , and historian of ideas. * Foucault’s work focused on the relationship between power , knowledge , and discourse . He analyzed how institutions shape knowledge and influence societal norms . His ideas have had a profound impact on fields such as sociology , cultural studies , and political theory . Lacan was a French psychoanalyst and psychiatrist . Lacan integrated psychoanalysis with structuralist linguistics , introducing concepts like the “ Mirror Stage ” and the symbolic order . He explored the role of language and symbols in the construction of subjectivity , emphasizing the importance of the unconscious and the symbolic realm .

47. 1915 - 1980 Jacques Derrida Roland Barthes Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 *Barthes is a French literary theorist, philosopher and semiotician. * Barthes played a pivotal role in challenging traditional literary criticism and advocating for a more reader-centered approach . His essay “ Death of the Author ” is a landmark work in post-structuralist thought, arguing against the authority of the author in determining a text’s meaning. *Derrida was an Algerian-born French philosopher . * Derrida is widely associated with deconstruction , a method of textual analysis that seeks to expose and destabilize hierarchical oppositions within the language. He emphasized the inherent instability and multiple meanings in texts, challenging the notion of fixed meanings and linguistics binaries. *Foucault is a French philosopher , social theorist , and historian of ideas. * Foucault’s work focused on the relationship between power , knowledge , and discourse . He analyzed how institutions shape knowledge and influence societal norms . His ideas have had a profound impact on fields such as sociology , cultural studies , and political theory . Psychoanalytic Theory: Lacan integrated psychoanalytic theory with structuralism. He emphasized the role of language in shaping subjectivity and understanding the self. His concept of the " mirror stage " explores how individuals develop a sense of identity through language and symbols . The Real, the Imaginary, and the Symbolic: Lacan's model of the psyche includes the Real ( unattainable reality ), the Imaginary ( image and identification ), and the Symbolic ( language and social order ). This triad has influenced various fields, including literary theory and cultural studies.

48. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF LACAN’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 1. THE MIRROR STAGE Observation: Lacan introduced the concept of the mirror stage, a psychoanalytic notion that describes a crucial moment in an infant's development when it identifies with its own reflection in a mirror. This identification is fundamental to the formation of the ego. Implications: The mirror stage highlights the role of images and symbols in the construction of subjectivity. It suggests that the sense of self is formed through identification with external images.

49. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF LACAN’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 2. THE SYMBOLIC ORDER Observation: Lacan proposed the idea of the symbolic order, which refers to the realm of language and symbols that mediate our experience of reality. Language, for Lacan, plays a central role in shaping subjectivity and social structures. Implications: The symbolic order emphasizes the importance of language in the formation of identity and social structures. It connects Lacan's work to broader post-structuralist concerns with the nature of language and its effects on subjectivity.

50. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF LACAN’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 3. THE REAL, THE IMAGINARY, AND THE SYMBOLIC Observation: Lacan distinguished between three realms: the Real, the Imaginary, and the Symbolic. The Real is the domain of the unmediated and pre-linguistic, the Imaginary involves images and representations, and the Symbolic is the realm of language and signifiers. Implications: This triadic structure provides a framework for understanding the complex interplay between lived experience, mental representations, and linguistic systems in the construction of meaning and identity.

51. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF LACAN’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 4. LINGUISTIC STRUCTURES AND LACK Observation: Lacan emphasized the role of linguistic structures in shaping desire and identity. He argued that language introduces a fundamental lack or gap (manque) that gives rise to desire. Implications: This concept of lack and desire connects Lacan's work to post-structuralist concerns with the inherent instability and incompleteness of language, contributing to discussions about the nature of meaning and subjectivity.

52. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF LACAN’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 5. THE PHALLUS AS SIGNIFIER Observation: Lacan used the phallus as a key signifier in his theorization of desire and the symbolic order. The phallus is not merely a biological organ but a symbolic representation that operates within the structure of language. Implications: This use of the phallus as a signifier exemplifies Lacan's approach to psychoanalysis, where symbols and language play a crucial role in the formation of unconscious desires and meanings.

53. Jacques Derrida KEY ASPECTS OF LACAN’S POST-STRUCURAL THOUGHTS: Michel Foucault Jacques Lacan 1930 - 2004 1926 - 1984 1901 - 1981 6. DESIRE AND THE OTHER Observation: Lacan explored the role of desire in relation to the Other, a term he used to represent both significant others in an individual's life and the broader symbolic order. Desire, according to Lacan, is always mediated through language and the Other. Implications: This perspective contributes to post-structuralist discussions about the social construction of desire and the ways in which language shapes our understanding of self and others.

54. PSYCHOANALYTIC LINGUISTICS Lacan applied psychoanalytic principles to language and communication , emphasizing the role of the unconscious and the symbolic order in the formation of subjectivity. Lacan’s concept of “ mirror stage ” explores the formation of the ego and the individual’s identification with images and symbols.

55. PSYCHOANALYTIC LINGUISTICS The Symbolic Order introduces structural constraints on our understanding of reality . I t influences how we categorize and interpret experiences . Post-Structuralism , building on Lacan's ideas, explores how language and discourse create and limit meaning, opening the door to deconstruction and questioning of established structures. Illusion of Wholeness: This illusion of wholeness becomes a lifelong quest for unity and identity. Lacan's Mirror Stage challenges the notion of a stable, unified self, suggesting that our sense of identity is always in a state of tension and lack .

56. KEY CONCEPTS

57. 1. REJECTION OF FIXED MEANING Post-structuralists reject the idea that language and meaning have stable , fixed foundations . They argue that the meaning is contingent and context-dependent , always subject to interpretation and reinterpretation . Derrida’s concept of “ différance ,” a play on the French words “ différer ” (to differ) and “ defer ” (to delay), suggests that meaning is deferred and delayed , and that words gain their significance through their differences from other words . It also underscores the inherent complexity of language and the impossibility of arriving at a definitive and stable meaning ; and challenges the notion that language can represent a fixed reality without ambiguity .

58. REJECTION OF FIXED MEANING Time (noun) flies (verb) like an arrow (adverb clause). = Time passes quickly. Time (verb) flies (object) like an arrow (adverb clause). = Get out your stopwatch and time the speed of flies as you would time an arrow’s flight. Time flies (noun) like (verb) an arrow (object). = Time flies are fond of arrows (or at least of one particular arrow). Time flies like an arrow.

59. 2. DECONSTRUCTION OF BINARY OPPOSITIONS Deconstruction , a method associated with Derrida , involves critically examining and destabilizing binary oppositions within texts . It seeks to reveal the inherent contradictions and hierarchies present in language . Derrida deconstructed the traditional oppositions of speech/writing ( logocentrism ), presence/absence and nature/culture ( archive and trace ) to illustrate how these pairs are interdependent and mutually constitutive .

60. 3. POWER AND DISCOURSE Foucault examined the relationship between power , knowledge , and discourse . He argued that institutions and discourses shape our understanding of truth , and power operates through various forms of discourse . Foucault’s historical studies, such as “ The Birth of the Clinic ” and “ Discipline and Punish ,” (which introduced Panopticism – abnormal individual put under constant surveillance) analyze how power operates in institutional settings like hospitals and prisons through the production of knowledge.

61. POWER AND DISCOURSE

62. 4. MULTIPLICITY AND FLUIDITY Post-structuralists reject essentialism and emphasize the multiplicity of meanings , identities , and realities . They highlight the fluid and contingent nature of cultural phenomena . Barthes’ exploration of myths in “ Mythologies ” demonstrates how everyday objects and practices can carry multiple , socially constructed meanings .

63. NATURE, FUNCTION AND APPLICATION OF POST-STRUCTURALISM

64. NATURE OF POST-STRUCTURALISM Post-structuralism offers a way of studying how knowledge is produced and critiques structuralist premises. It argues that because history and culture condition the study of underlying structures, both are subject to biases and misinterpretations . A post-structuralist approach argues that to understand an object (e.g., a text), it is necessary to study both the object itself and the systems of knowledge that produced the object .

65. FUNCTIONS OF POST-STRUCTURALISM Post-structuralist analysis focuses on how meaning is constructed through language, examining how signs and texts come to produce meaning. It looks at how power relations are created in language and how marginalized voices or perspectives are excluded.

66. FUNCTIONS OF POST-STRUCTURALISM Deconstruction of Binary Oppositions: Challenges fixed categories like good/evil, male/female, revealing complexity. Interrogation of Language: Questions language's ability to transparently represent reality. Multiplicity of Meanings: Asserts texts have multiple interpretations, rejecting a single, fixed meaning. Death of the Author: Shifts authority from the author to the reader and cultural context. Recognition of Reader's Agency: Empowers readers as active participants in meaning creation.

67. FUNCTIONS OF POST-STRUCTURALISM Emphasis on Power and Discourse: Explores the connection between language, power, and cultural norms. Focus on Intertextuality: Highlights interconnectedness of texts, influencing and being influenced. Challenge to Structuralism: Responds to structuralism's rigidity, introducing a dynamic understanding. Rejection of Essentialism: Rejects fixed, universal truths, emphasizing context-dependent meanings. Exploration of Fragmented Subjectivity: Examines the fragmented nature of identity influenced by various forces.

68. APPLICATIONS OF POST-STRUCTURALISM Post-structuralist literary critics use techniques like deconstruction to "destabilize" the assumed meanings in a text. They may analyze how a text subverts its own apparent meanings, or examine silences, gaps and ambiguities . Things like a narrator's reliability, readers' assumptions, and the self-contradictions in language can all be questioned. Foucault's examinations of power/knowledge contributed to post-structuralist analysis of literature's role in power relations .

69. POST-STRUCTURALISM STRENGTHS & WEAKNESSES

70. STRENGTHS OF POST-STRUCTURALISM Provides more nuanced analyses of texts by questioning assumed meanings and exposing contradictions/paradoxes in language. Allows for interpretations that give voice to marginalized groups not represented in traditional readings. Critiques the idea that texts have universal, fixed meanings tied to the author's intent. Meaning is fluid, not fixed . Provides tools to analyze how language and discourse shape power relations in society . Seeks to destabilize dominant ideologies and assumptions baked into language and texts.

71. WEAKNESSES OF POST-STRUCTURALISM Its focus on unstable meaning can lead to relativist interpretations where "anything goes." Critiques the author's role so much that authorial intent/context is ignored. Dense theoretical language can make it inaccessible to wider audiences. It is often criticized for depoliticizing literature by not addressing real social/political issues . Its skepticism of " grand narratives " can easily slip into passive nihilism (life is meaningless), cynicism or solipsism(self interest). Offers more tools for critique than for positive social change . Can seem overly negative.

72. CONCLUSION

73. Conclusion In conclusion, post-structuralism challenged traditional assumptions about stable textual meaning through key concepts like deconstruction, discourse analysis, and the " death of the author ." It provoked new interpretations by rejecting universal truth and highlighting the fluid, subjective nature of meaning. While criticized for obscurity and relativism, post-structuralism provided vital new analytical tools and interdisciplinary approaches . Its legacy continues to influence literary studies, though it remains contentious. Overall, post-structuralism profoundly changed how we think about meaning and interpretation in texts .

74. Thank You! 