Role of Literary Theories in Institutionalising Literary Studies

BODHI International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Science Vol.8 Special Issue 6 August 2024 E-ISSN: 2456-5571 CENTRE FOR RESOURCE, RESEARCH & PUBLICATION SERVICES (CRRPS) www.crrps.in | www.bodhijournals.com BODHI INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN HUMANITIES, ARTS AND SCIENCE An Online, Peer-reviewed, Refereed and Quarterly Journal Vol: 8 Special Issue 6 August 2024 Aim & Objectives Academic Excellence in research is sustained by promoting research support for young Scholars. Our Journal on Humanities, Arts and Science of research is motivating all aspects of encounters across disciplines and research fields in a multidisciplinary view, by assembling research groups and consequently projects, supporting publications with this inclination and organizing programmes. Internationalization of research work is the unit seeks to develop its scholarly profile in research through quality of publications. And visibility of research is creating sustainable platforms for research and publication, such as series of books; motivating dissemination of research results for people and society. Disclaimer Contributors are advised to be strict in academic ethics with respect to acknowledgment of the original ideas borrowed from others. The Publisher & editors will not be held responsible for any such lapse of the contributor regarding plagiarism and unwarranted quotations in their manuscripts. All submissions should be original and must be accompanied by a declaration stating your research paper as an original work and has not been published anywhere else. It will be the sole responsibility of the authors for such lapses, if any on legal bindings and ethical code of publication. Communication Papers should [email protected] CONTENTS S.No. Chapters 1 Role of Theories in Institutionalising Literary Studies Dr. J. John Sekar Enhancing English Language Proficiency through Film: Integrating Cinema into Language Training Jerald J Kocherry & Dr. Asghar Ali Ansari Crossing Boards: The Evolution of Female Identity in Manju Kapur’s Fiction K. Kameswari, Dr. Ranjit Kumar Pati & Dr. Visweswara Rao Chenamallu Role of Language in Discerning ‘Unsayable’ and its Relation with Fear in Jon Fosse’s Novels Darakhshan Aftab Post - Colonial Ecology in the Select Novels of Amitav Ghosh, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Margaret Atwood Dr. M. Rajaram, J K Ashwinvarsha, N. Raja Lakshmi & S. Nandhini Veiled Tile of a Virgin Princess Sukanya and her Husband Chyavana in Anita Nair’s The Puffin Book of Magical Indian Myths Dr. S. Suganya & S. Govardhini Theories and Techniques in Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s The Mistress of Spices Dr. A. Suganya & Dr. K.M. Kamalakkannan 2 3 4 5 6 7 be mailed to E-ISSN: 2456-5571 Page No. 1 12 17 22 27 32 38 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Visual Semiotics in Children’s Literature: A Case Study of David Diaz’s Illustrations in ‘Smoky Night’ Mary Shirley Generation Conflicts in Gender Roles and Identity Crisis on Mahesh Dattani’s Dance Like a Man S. Sathiya Bama Sam Selvon’s Those Who Eat the Cascadura as a Postcolonial Critique Jeni R.V Living with the Corpse: A Comparative Study of William Faulkner’s A Rose for Emily and Stephen King’s Under The Weather Adrin Sanchia Jason D & Dr. N. Ananthavalli Voicing Out for Justice: Budhan: A Play by Denoified Chharas Agnisri S & Dr. S.V. Karthiga Peregrination towards Self-Identity of Igbo Woman in Buchi Emecheta’s Second Class Citizen and The Joys of Motherhood Linsheya M Meflin & Dr. Reni Y.G Repression and the Unconscious: A Freudian Analysis of Symbolism in the Yellow Wallpaper Rebina M & Dr. D. Wilfin John Scimitar - Wielding Language for Nature and Man: A Study on Arundhati Roy Shyla M & Dr J Sheila Crossing the Boundaries of Social Conventions: A Study on the Aspect of Modern Woman in Namita Gokhale’s Paro: Dreams of Passion D. Gobi & Dr. V. Suganthi Fragmented and Fused: Cultural Precarity and Hybridity in Min Jin Lee’s Pachinko Muthulakshmi S Magical Realism: A Literary Genre that Blurs the Lines between Reality and Fantasy Keya Sara Geevarghese 42 19 46 20 49 21 53 22 23 58 24 62 25 66 69 26 73 27 77 28 82 29 Depiction of the Pursuit of Self-Identity in Shashi Deshpande's Novel 'That Long Silence': An Analysis A. Anusuya Recent Changes in Indian Media’s Representation of Northeast India. A Critical Analysis of Films Axone and Anek Aiswarya P The Portrayal of Religious Disparity in Bama’s Karukku P. Hari Priya Journey towards Self-Identity: A Psychoanalytical Study of Rebecca Walker’s Black White and Jewish A. Sebastiraj & Dr. D. Rajakumari A Depiction of Urban Landscape in Raj Kamal Jha’s The Blue Bedspread and If You are Afraid of Heights M. Kanniya & Dr. J. Sobhana Devi Animalizing the Human: Exploring Power Dynamics and Social Realism in Seasons of the Palm and Disgrace K. Karthickraja & Dr. S. Geetha Enhancing Engineering Students' Writing Skills through Blended Learning: A Study on the Impact of Instructional Technologies and Collaborative Tools Divya Deevi & Dr. Durga Malleeswari Sunkara Xenophobia among Asylum Seekers in Abdulrazak Gurnah’s Pilgrims Way A Harrin Ashney & Dr S Felicia Gladys Sathiadevi Indian Literature Hangwoman as a Feminism Novel Madhumitha B.A Vocabularies and Word Games in English Language Teaching R. Priyadharshini Autism and Theatre: Casting Christopher In Simon Stephens’ Play The Curious Incident of the dog in the Night-Time M. Josna Infanta & Dr. P. Prasanna Devi 87 90 95 98 102 105 108 115 119 121 126 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 Nuances of Implicating Technology in ESL Classroom K. Johara Nishath Innovative Teaching Methods in ELT Dr. J. Uma Samundeeswari & Arya S Nair Narrative Structure and Storytelling in Vikram Chandra’s Love and Longing in Bombay D.R. Persis Mahima & Dr. S. Felicia Gladys Sathiadevi Changing Dimensions of Gender in Haruki Murakami’s Hear the Wind Sing: A Study of Gender Roles and Identity in Contemporary Japanese Literature Jenifer M & Dr. S. Felicia Gladys Sathiadevi Scrutinizing the Forbidden and the Taboo: Queer Narratives in Akwaeke Emezi’s Death of Vivek Oji M. Bhama & Dr. S. Felicia Gladys Sathiadevi Survival and Self-Discovery: The Journey of Female Characters in Kristin Hannah’s The Women K. Sherin Fathima & Dr. S. Felicia Gladys Sathiadevi Rhythm of Revolution and Politics in the Lyrics of Bob Marley M. Mariaselvam & Dr. S. Karthika 130 37 134 38 136 39 140 40 41 144 147 150 Innovative Methodologies in Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) through Content based Approaches S M Kavitha & Dr. S. Felicia Gladys Sathiadevi Power Dynamics: Amalgamation of History and Friendship in Kamila Shamsie’s Best of Friends M. Kalaiselvi & Dr. S. Karthika Institutional Racism and the Marginalization of Indigenous People in George Ryga‘s the Ecstasy of Rita Joe Kayathri .M The Depiction of Pragmatism in Aravind Adiga’s Last Man in Tower J.Kavitha & Dr.D.S. Parveen Banu A Study of Third Gender Identity in Laxmi’s Me Hijra Me Laxmi M. Abinaya & Dr. S. Karthika 153 158 161 164 168 Vol. 8 Special Issue 6 August 2024 E-ISSN: 2456-5571 ROLE OF THEORIES IN INSTITUTIONALISING LITERARY STUDIES Dr. J. JOHN SEKAR Associate Professor & Former Head, Research Department of English Former Dean, Academic Policies & Administration The American College, Madurai Abstract This article explores the pivotal role that various literary theories have played in the institutionalization of literary studies. It argues that these theories have not only formalized the discipline but have also challenged and reshaped its contours. It has employed a historical method, and traces the evolution of literary theories from structuralism and poststructuralism to cultural and critical theory. It also demonstrates how each theoretical movement responded to specific intellectual and cultural contexts and contributed to the establishment of literary studies as a rigorous academic field. The analysis highlights how these theories fostered interdisciplinary connections, expanded the literary canon, and influenced curriculum development, thereby transforming literary studies into a globally recognized and influential discipline. Through a detailed examination of key texts and theoretical developments, the article underscores the necessity of these frameworks in elevating literary analysis and shaping the future of literary scholarship. Keywords: literary-critical theories, reading vs. studying literature, post-structuralism, professionalisation of english studies Introduction Appreciating and understanding literature for pleasure, and critically reading or study of literature as academic pursuits are distinct yet interconnected activities in terms of purpose, approach, activities, and outcome. When engaging with literature, the experience can vary significantly depending on whether one is reading for pleasure or studying for academic purposes. These two approaches, while both rooted in a love of the written word, differ in their purpose, method, activities, and outcomes. Reading for pleasure is driven by personal enjoyment, an exploration of narrative, and emotional connection, allowing readers to immerse Purpose    1 themselves in stories, characters, and themes without the pressure of analysis. In contrast, academic study of literature is more structured, involving critical thinking, analysis, and interpretation, with the goal of gaining deeper insights into the text, its context, and its implications. This section explores the distinctions between these two modes of reading, examining how they influence the reader‘s approach, the activities they engage in, and the outcomes they achieve, ultimately highlighting the unique value each brings to the experience of literature. The following table captures the differences: Appreciation of Lit Critical Reading or Studying Lit Understanding, appreciating, and enjoying the literary work. Developing a personal, emotional connection to the text. Gaining a general understanding of themes, characters, and plot.  Gaining deeper analytical insight into the text.  Conducting a critical analysis to explore unexplored aspects of literary works.  Evaluating the text‘s structure, style, themes, and significance.  Applying various critical theories and frameworks to understand and critique the work. Bodhi International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Science Vol. 8 Approach Special Issue 6    Activities       Output August 2024 Emphasizing personal reaction and feelings about the work. Reading at a surface level without delving deeply into the text‘s complexities. Understanding the historical, cultural, and biographical context of the work to enhance appreciation.  Close reading to uncover underlying meanings, patterns, and literary techniques.  Focusing on detailed analysis of the text, considering aspects like symbolism, metaphors, and narrative techniques.  Making connections between the text and other works, theories, or historical contexts.  Employing specific research methodologies. Extensive reading of various literary texts. Reading texts for enjoyment and overall understanding. Participating in discussions that explore different interpretations and emotional reactions. Reflecting on how the text resonates personally or how it connects to broader human experiences.  Reading texts and existing research relevant to a specific research question or hypothesis.  Annotating the text to highlight significant passages, themes, and stylistic elements.  Conducting research to support critical interpretations and understand the text‘s broader implications.  Comparing and contrasting the text with other works or theoretical perspectives.  Collecting data from primary and secondary sources.  Reviewing existing literature to identify gaps or areas for further study. Writing exam essays. Writing reviews or reflections that express personal insights and appreciation. The study of literature primarily takes place within academia, where it is pursued through structured courses, research, and scholarly activities. Literature is studied within academic programmes, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels, where students take courses on various literary periods, genres, and movements. These courses cover a wide range of topics, from classical literature to contemporary works, and from national literatures to global perspectives. In academia, the study of literature involves rigorous critical analysis. Students and scholars examine texts through various 2 E-ISSN: 2456-5571  Writing essays or papers that present a wellsupported critical analysis of the text.  Producing scholarly articles, theses, or dissertations that present new findings or interpretations.  Engaging in academic discussions and presentations that articulate critical perspectives.  Presenting findings at conferences or seminars. theoretical lenses, such as feminism, Marxism, psychoanalysis, and postcolonialism. This analysis often focuses on themes, structures, narrative techniques, and the socio-political contexts of the texts. Thus, the study often intersects with other disciplines, such as history, philosophy, sociology, and cultural studies. This interdisciplinary approach enriches literary studies by providing broader contexts and deeper insights into texts. Academic study of literature also includes conducting original research, where scholars contribute to the field by exploring new Bodhi International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Science Vol. 8 Special Issue 6 August 2024 interpretations, uncovering lesser-known works, or applying new theoretical frameworks. Research is often published in academic journals, books, and presented at conferences. Moreover, the study involves extensive writing, where students and scholars produce essays, research papers, and theses that articulate their analyses and interpretations. This writing is a key component of academic training, helping to develop critical thinking and argumentation skills. Literature is also studied through seminars and discussions, where students and faculty engage in dialogue about texts, theories, and interpretations. These discussions foster a deeper understanding of literature and encourage the exchange of ideas. Literature is not only studied but also taught. Professors guide students through the complexities of literary texts, helping them develop analytical skills and a deeper appreciation for literature. Mentorship is also a crucial aspect, particularly in graduate studies, where faculty members guide students in their research and academic development. The academic study is also often assessed through exams, essays, and presentations, which evaluate students‘ understanding, analytical abilities, and engagement with the texts and theories studied. Review of the Related Literature The institutionalization of literary studies has been profoundly influenced by the evolution and application of literary theories. As Jameson observes, ―Literary theory has played a pivotal role in shaping the academic discipline of literary studies, framing its methodologies and guiding its evolution‖ (Jameson, 2005, p. 14). He highlights how theoretical frameworks have been instrumental in defining the scope and approach of literary scholarship within academic institutions. Scholars argue that literary theories have provided the foundational structures for curriculum development and scholarly discourse. According to Andrew Bennett and Nicholas Royle, ―Theories of literature have not merely supplemented literary studies but have become integral to its very foundation, influencing how texts are taught, studied, 3 E-ISSN: 2456-5571 and understood‖ (2004, p. 58). This integration underscores the essential role of theory in shaping the academic landscape of literary studies. They also assert that ―Literary theory is an unavoidable part of studying literature and criticism.‖ (p. ix) Further, the institutionalization process has been marked by the way literary theories have contributed to the establishment of literary studies as a distinct academic field. As Terry Eagleton argues, ―The academic institutionalization of literary studies is deeply intertwined with the development of critical theories, which have provided both legitimacy and direction to the field‖ (2008, p. 22). This connection emphasizes the dual role of theory in both legitimizing and advancing literary scholarship within educational institutions. In addition, literary theories have facilitated the institutionalization of literary studies by promoting specialized research and interdisciplinary approaches. As Helen Vendler notes, ―Theories of literature have encouraged the proliferation of specialized research areas and interdisciplinary connections, thus institutionalizing literary studies in diverse and evolving ways‖ (1997, p. 41). This diversification reflects the expanding role of literary theory in shaping and broadening the field. Literary theory has revolutionized the academic study of literature by offering scholars sophisticated tools to analyse not just the content of literature, but its function and impact within broader social and cultural contexts. Rather than viewing literature as an isolated entity, literary theory encourages us to see it as deeply interconnected with the world we inhabit. Mary Klages argues that literary texts do not merely reflect the world but actively shape it, influencing how we perceive and engage with our surroundings. This perspective has significantly broadened the scope of literary studies, moving beyond traditional methods of close reading and essay writing to a more politically conscious engagement with social issues related to race, gender, sexual orientation, and physical ability. Klages also notes that literary theory has played a crucial role in the professionalization of English studies by fostering the development of Bodhi International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Science Vol. 8 Special Issue 6 August 2024 knowledge about literature, specifically through theories that explain how meaning is constructed and how these meanings influence our daily lives (2008, pp. 1-9). Patricia Waugh further explores the impact of literary theory on the academic landscape, emphasizing its role in the professionalization of literary studies. She suggests that the term ―literary theory‖ itself reflects this shift, as it aligns literary studies with broader academic developments since the late 19th century. While literary criticism traditionally focuses on the close reading, evaluation, and interpretation of specific works, literary theory demands that we critically examine the assumptions underlying these practices. Waugh posits that no interpretation can be entirely innocent, objective, or purely descriptive, characterizing literary theory as a ―criticism of criticism‖—a self-reflective practice that challenges the foundational assumptions of literary analysis (2006, p. 2). David Lodge, in the foreword to his book Modern Criticism and Theory (1988), acknowledges the increasing influence of theory within literary studies, particularly through the adoption of terms and concepts from other disciplines. However, he also highlights a critique of this trend, noting that the focus on theory has sometimes led to a departure from traditional humanistic values. These include viewing the author as the primary source of a text‘s meaning, believing in the possibility of objective interpretation, valuing empirical historical scholarship, and upholding the authority of the literary canon (xii). Lodge‘s observations underscore the tensions that can arise when literary theory challenges long-established principles within the field. Literary theory is often perceived as an ―intraacademic ideological war‖ (Cixous 1999, p. 211) because it represents a contested space where different schools of thought, each with its own methods, objectives, and ideological commitments, vie for dominance. The rise of certain theories, such as poststructuralism or postmodernism, has shifted power dynamics within academic institutions, 4 E-ISSN: 2456-5571 sometimes marginalizing more traditional approaches. Moreover, many literary theories are not only concerned with interpreting texts but also with addressing broader social and political issues, such as gender, race, class, and colonialism. These theories often carry explicit ideological commitments, leading to conflicts within academia as scholars align themselves with particular theoretical frameworks. The adoption of literary theories can also shape the professional identity of scholars. Affiliating with or rejecting specific theories can signal one‘s academic allegiance, which can intensify conflicts as scholars defend their theoretical positions both intellectually and personally. Besides, the integration of literary theory into academic curricula has transformed the way literature is taught and studied, sparking debates over what should be included in the curriculum and how literary studies should be conducted. These debates have further contributed to the perception of literary theory as an ideological battleground within academia. The body of theory that emerged after the 1960s is particularly notable for its influence beyond its original disciplinary boundaries. Thinkers like Freud and Nietzsche, who were once primarily studied within the fields of psychology and philosophy, are now more frequently examined in ‗theory‘ courses within literature departments. This shift reflects the broader reach of literary theory, which has reshaped thinking across disciplines and continues to be a dynamic force within academic studies (Culler, 1987). Hence, this article explores the role of literary theories in the institutionalization of literary studies by examining their influence on curriculum development, academic legitimacy, research specialization, and interdisciplinary connections. An understanding of these contributions can enable students of literature appreciate how literary theories have shaped the academic landscape of literary studies and continue to influence its evolution. Thesis Statement Theories have not only played a crucial role in institutionalizing literary studies but have Bodhi International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Science Vol. 8 Special Issue 6 August 2024 also challenged and reshaped the discipline, asserting the necessity of structured methodologies, interdisciplinary approaches, and an expanded literary canon, thereby elevating literary analysis to a rigorous and globally influential academic field. Research Questions The following research questions guided the researcher throughout the study: 1) How does the experience of appreciating literature for personal pleasure differ from the academic study of literature in terms of cognitive engagement, interpretive strategies, and the overall impact on the readers‘/students‘ understanding and appreciation of the text? 2) How did specific literary theories, such as structuralism, poststructuralism, and cultural theory, contribute to the formalization and institutionalization of literary studies as an academic discipline? 3) In what ways did the evolution of literary theories throughout the 20th century challenge and reshape the curriculum, research methodologies, and interdisciplinary approaches within literary studies? 4) How have the shifts in literary theories from Formalism to Digital Humanities reflected and responded to changing intellectual, cultural, and technological contexts, and what impact have these shifts had on the evolution of literary studies as an academic discipline? Method The historical method involves tracing the development of literary theories over time and their impact on the institutionalization of literary studies. This approach includes a chronological analysis of key movements (e.g., structuralism, poststructuralism, cultural studies) and their influence on the academic discipline. The article explores how specific theories emerged in response to particular historical contexts and how they 5 E-ISSN: 2456-5571 contributed to the formalization of literary studies within universities. This article draws upon Terry Eagleton‘s insights from Literary Theory: An Introduction, particularly the introduction section titled Rise of English Studies: ―Literary studies as a formal academic discipline can be traced through the historical emergence of critical theories, each contributing to the shaping of the field by providing new interpretative frameworks that reflect the intellectual and cultural contexts of their time.‖ In this foundational text, Terry Eagleton explores the historical development of literary theory, from formalism and structuralism to poststructuralism and beyond, arguing that these movements are not only responses to literary texts but also to broader historical and ideological shifts. Eagleton‘s work exemplifies the historical method by situating literary theories within their specific historical contexts and demonstrating how these theories have shaped the institutional landscape of literary studies. Results The study identified the following reasons for the pivotal role of literary theories in institutionalising literary studies during the twentieth century: 1) The rise of structuralism and poststructuralism 2) Interdisciplinary influence 3) The growth of cultural and critical theory 4) Institutionalisation of curricular development 5) Globalisation of literary studies 6) Impact on research and scholarship. The study also identified the following timeline of literary theories and their cultural backgrounds that provides an overview of the major literary theories, their origins, and the cultural contexts that shaped them. Each theory has contributed to the evolution of literary studies as an academic discipline, and offers new perspectives on how literature can be understood, interpreted, and critiqued. Bodhi International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Science Vol. 8 Theory Formalism 1. Russian Formalism 2. Special Issue 6 Timeline 1910s1930s New Criticism Marxist Literary Criticism 1920s1930s Psychanalytic Theory 1930s1950s Structuralism 1950s1960s Poststructuralism 1960sPresent Reader-Response Theory 1960s1970s Feminist Theory 1970s1980s 6 August 2024 E-ISSN: 2456-5571 Cultural Background Origins Focus Emerged in the postIs on the formal aspects of literature revolutionary period in Russia. such as narrative techniques, language, and structure, rather than content or Developed in the United States social context. and Britain as a reaction against the biographical and historical It emphasizes close reading and textual approaches to literature. analysis. Rooted in the ideas of Karl Marx It analyses literature through the lens of and Friedrich Engels, it class struggle, economic systems, and developed during the interwar ideologies, viewing texts as products of period, influenced by the rise of the material conditions of their time. socialist and communist movements. Influenced by the work of Literature is analysed in terms of the Sigmund Freud, who explored psychological motivations of characters the unconscious mind, dreams, and authors, as well as symbolic and repression. elements that reveal unconscious desires. Emerged from the linguistic Structuralists analyse literature as a theories of Ferdinand de system of signs, and explores how Saussure, it emphasizes meaning is generated through binary underlying structures in language oppositions and deep structures. and culture. Emerged in France as a response It focuses on challenging and to and critique of Structuralism, deconstructing the fixed structures, which was dominant at the time. binary oppositions, and assumptions The political and intellectual about meaning, knowledge, and climate was shaped by the events identity that were central to of May 1968 in France, which Structuralism and other earlier questioned traditional authority theoretical frameworks. and structures in both society and academia. Developed as a reaction against It emphasizes the active role of the formalist and structuralist reader in creating meaning, considering approaches that focused solely how individual experiences, cultural on the text, without considering background, and psychology influence the reader‘s role. interpretation. Arising alongside the secondIt analyses literature through the lens of wave feminist movement, which gender, exploring representations of focused on gender equality, women, gender dynamics, and the role women‘s rights, and the critique of literature in perpetuating or of patriarchal structures. challenging gender norms. Bodhi International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Science Vol. 8 Special Issue 6 Deconstruction 1960s1980s New Historicism & Cultural Materialism 1980s1990s Postcolonial Theory 1980s1990s Gender & Queer Theory 1990sPresent Ecocriticism 1990sPresent Postmodern Theory 1980sPresent 7 August 2024 Developed by Jacques Derrida as a response to structuralism, influenced by postmodern scepticism about the possibility of fixed meanings and absolute truths. Emerged in the context of poststructuralism and the renewed interest in the relationship between literature and history. Influenced by the decolonization movements and the writings of Frantz Fanon, Edward Said, and others who critiqued the cultural and political legacies of colonialism. Gender theory grew out of feminist theory while queer theory emerged in the context of the gay and lesbian rights movement and poststructuralist critiques of identity. Arising from environmental concerns and the growing awareness of ecological crises, influenced by earlier nature writing and environmental philosophy. Began to permeate various cultural fields, including literature, architecture, and the visual arts. It was characterized by a rejection of rigid boundaries between genres and disciplines, playful intertextuality, irony, pastiche, and the blurring of reality and fiction. E-ISSN: 2456-5571 It challenges the idea of stable meaning in texts, and exposes contradictions, ambiguities, and the instability of language itself. New Historicism emphasizes the historical context in which literature is produced and received, while Cultural Materialism focuses on the political implications of texts and their role in cultural production. It analyses literature produced in or about former colonies, and explores themes of identity, power, resistance, and the effects of colonialism on culture and language. Gender theory examines how literature constructs and deconstructs gender roles while queer theory challenges normative sexual identities and explores the fluidity of gender and sexuality in literature. It explores the relationship between literature and the environment, analyses how nature is represented, and how literature can contribute to environmental consciousness. Rejects the overarching narratives and ideologies, such as Enlightenment rationality, Marxism, or religious dogma that claim to explain all aspects of human experience. Embraces the idea that reality is constructed through language, culture, and power, leading to a plurality of perspectives rather than a single, objective truth. The concept of hyperreality, where simulations or representations become more real than reality itself, is central to postmodern thought, Bodhi International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Science Vol. 8 Digital Humanities & Digital Literary Studies Special Issue 6 August 2024 E-ISSN: 2456-5571 Emerged with the advent of They incorporate computational tools digital technology and the and digital methods to analyse texts, internet, transforming how explore large datasets, and investigate literature is studied, accessed, new forms of textuality in digital and analysed. media. concept of ―deconstruction‖ challenges the idea of Discussion Literary theories played a pivotal role in stable meanings and fixed structures in texts, institutionalizing literary studies in the second half of emphasizing the fluidity and multiplicity of the 20th century. This period saw a significant shift in interpretations. Poststructuralism‘s impact on literary how literature was studied and taught, largely due to studies institutionalized a more critical and the rise of various literary theories that offered new questioning approach to texts, encouraging scholars and diverse ways of interpreting texts. to interrogate the assumptions underlying literary Structuralism, influenced by linguist Ferdinand analysis and to explore the complexities of language de Saussure, introduced the idea that meaning in and meaning. language and texts is derived from underlying Literary theories increasingly drew on concepts structures rather than individual words or sentences. from other disciplines, such as psychology This approach was extended to literary studies, (psychoanalytic theory), sociology (Marxist theory), where scholars began analysing the structures that philosophy (existentialism), and anthropology govern narratives and genres. Roland Barthes‘ S/Z (cultural theory). This interdisciplinary approach (1970) exemplifies the rise of structuralism in made literary studies more robust and relevant, literary studies. Barthes analyses the short story attracting scholars from diverse academic ―Sarrasine‖ by Honoré de Balzac using structuralist backgrounds. For example, Sigmund Freud‘s principles, breaking down the text into units of psychoanalytic theory, particularly his ideas on the meaning called ―lexias‖ and examining the unconscious, Oedipus complex, and dream analysis, underlying structures that govern the narrative. This had a profound influence on literary criticism. approach demonstrates how structuralism provides a Freud‘s work encouraged literary scholars to explore scientific methodology to literary analysis, moving the psychological dimensions of characters and beyond mere interpretation to uncover the deep narratives, leading to the development of structures that shape meaning in texts. The psychoanalytic literary criticism. For example, the th prominence of structuralism in the mid-20 century application of Freud‘s theories to Shakespeare‘s played a crucial role in formalizing literary studies as Hamlet reveals the deep psychological conflicts an academic discipline, influencing curricula and within the protagonist, providing insights into themes research methods. of desire, repression, and identity. This Poststructuralism, which followed structuralism, interdisciplinary connection between psychology and challenged the idea of fixed meanings and literary studies contributed to the institutionalization emphasized the fluidity of language and of literary criticism by integrating methods and interpretation. Thinkers like Jacques Derrida insights from other academic fields. (deconstruction) and Roland Barthes (the death of The second half of the 20th century saw the the author) questioned traditional notions of emergence of critical theories that focused on power, authorship and textual meaning, leading to a more ideology, and identity. The Frankfurt School‘s dynamic and complex understanding of literature. critical theory, feminist theory, postcolonial theory, Derrida‘s Of Grammatology (1967) is a seminal text and queer theory, among others, began to inform in poststructuralism, which emerged as a response to literary studies. These theories emphasized the role the perceived limitations of structuralism. Derrida‘s of literature in shaping and reflecting social norms, 8 2000sPresent Bodhi International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Science Vol. 8 Special Issue 6 August 2024 power dynamics, and cultural identities. For example, Raymond Williams‘ Culture and Society (1958) is a foundational text in cultural studies, a field that examines the relationship between culture, society, and literature. Williams argues that literature should be studied not just as an aesthetic object but as a cultural artifact that reflects and influences social values, power structures, and historical contexts. Moreover, cultural studies, by integrating critical theory and social analysis into literary studies, has expanded the scope of the field to include popular culture, media, and everyday practices. This growth of cultural and critical theory has been pivotal in shaping the curriculum and research agendas within literary studies departments. Literary theories became central to the curriculum in university English departments. The study of literature was no longer just about appreciating great works for their aesthetic value; it became a critical examination of texts within their social, historical, and cultural contexts. Courses in literary theory became standard offerings, and understanding different theoretical frameworks became essential for students and scholars. New Criticism, a dominant critical approach in the mid20th century, emphasized close reading and the analysis of the formal elements of a text, such as imagery, symbolism, and irony. Works like Cleanth Brooks‘ The Well-Wrought Urn (1947) exemplify this approach, and argues for the intrinsic value of the text itself, independent of historical or biographical contexts. New Criticism‘s focus on textual analysis led to the development of standardized methods of literary interpretation, which became central to the curriculum in English departments. This formalization of literary studies helped institutionalize the field by providing clear methodologies and criteria for literary scholarship. With the rise of postcolonial theory and cultural studies, literary studies began to incorporate texts from a wider range of cultures and traditions. This global perspective, supported by various literary theories, challenged the Eurocentric canon and promoted the study of diverse literatures, further 9 E-ISSN: 2456-5571 institutionalizing the field. For example, Edward Said‘s Orientalism (1978) is a key text in postcolonial theory, which examines the ways in which literature has been used to construct and perpetuate colonial power dynamics and cultural stereotypes. Said‘s critique of Western representations of the East has had a profound impact on literary studies, prompting scholars to reconsider the global implications of literary texts and to include non-Western literatures in their curricula. The globalization of literary studies, driven by postcolonial theory, has expanded the field beyond its traditional Eurocentric focus, encouraging a more inclusive and diverse approach to literary scholarship. Finally, literary theories provided new methodologies for research and scholarship. Theoretical frameworks allowed scholars to produce more rigorous and systematic analyses of texts, which contributed to the professionalization and institutionalization of literary studies as an academic discipline. For example, Judith Butler‘s Gender Trouble (1990) is a landmark work in queer theory, which challenges conventional understandings of gender and sexuality in literature and culture. Butler‘s concept of gender performativity has influenced a wide range of literary research, encouraging scholars to explore the fluidity of identity and the ways in which literature constructs and subverts gender norms. Queer theory‘s impact on research has led to a proliferation of studies that question traditional categories of identity and representation, making it a vital area of enquiry within literary studies. This ongoing scholarship has further institutionalized literary theory as an essential component of academic research. Scope for Further Research Research on the role of theories in institutionalizing literary studies can explore several promising areas. These areas can help illuminate the dynamic relationship between literary theories and the institutional structures that support and shape literary studies. Bodhi International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Science Vol. 8 Special Issue 6 August 2024 1) Investigation of how different literary theories have influenced the institutionalization of literary studies over time, and examination of specific periods or movements like New Criticism and Postmodernism and their impact on academic institutions. 2) Analysis of how various literary theories have been integrated into curricula and how this affects the structure and content of literary studies programs. 3) Exploration of how shifts in dominant theories impact the focus and direction of literary studies within institutions. 4) Researching how academic policies and governance structures shape the adoption and emphasis of certain theories within literary studies departments. 5) Examining how prestigious institutions‘ endorsement of specific theories influences their wider acceptance and application in literary studies. 6) Study of how literary theories interact with and influence other disciplines (e.g., cultural studies, gender studies), and how these interactions contribute to the institutionalization of literary studies. 7) Investigation of how collaborative research and teaching across disciplines impact the development and application of literary theories. 8) Exploration of how different theories are taught and how pedagogical approaches affect students‘ understanding and application of these theories. 9) Analysis of student responses to various theories and how this shapes their engagement with literary studies. 10) Researching how literary theories are represented and promoted in academic journals, books, and conferences, and how this impacts their institutionalization. 11) Examination of how trends in academic publishing influence the prominence and adoption of certain theories. 12) Investigation of how different cultural and regional contexts influence the adoption and 10 E-ISSN: 2456-5571 institutionalization of literary theories, and the study the impact of globalization on the dissemination and institutionalization of literary theories across borders. 13) Exploration of how resistance to certain theories and critical debates contribute to the shaping of literary studies. 14) Investigation of how new or emerging theories challenge existing frameworks and impact institutional practices. Limitations of the Study through Historical Method The historical method, while valuable for tracing the development of literary theories and their impact on the institutionalization of literary studies, has several limitations: 1) The historical method often relies on selected texts that may not represent the full spectrum of literary theory. Important contributions might have been overlooked if they do not fit the dominant narrative or were not recognized at the time. 2) Historical analysis does not fully account for the diverse socio-political, cultural, and economic contexts in which literary theories developed. Theories are often products of their time, and their evolution might be better understood through the complexities of their specific historical contexts. 3) Tracing the development of literary theories over time might lead to oversimplification. The development of literary theory is often nonlinear and can involve complex, overlapping influences that are not always easily captured in a historical narrative. 4) When examining the impact of literary theories on the institutionalization of literary studies, the focus is on formal institutions like universities and journals. This is likely to have neglected informal networks, grassroots movements, and other influential factors that have shaped literary studies. 5) Literary theories often intersect with other disciplines and intellectual movements. A Bodhi International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Science Vol. 8 Special Issue 6 August 2024 historical approach fragments the development of theories by isolating them from these broader interactions, missing out on how interdisciplinary exchanges have influenced literary studies. 6) Historical narratives can be shaped by the perspectives and biases of historians themselves. This can lead to a distorted representation of how literary theories evolved and their actual impact on the field. 7) The historical method focuses more on the production of literary theories rather than their reception and adaptation over time. Understanding how theories were received and transformed in different contexts is crucial for a comprehensive view of their impact. Conclusion The second half of the 20th century was a transformative period for literary studies, with literary theories playing a central role in reshaping the field. These theories not only broadened the scope of literary analysis but also helped institutionalize literary studies as a critical and interdisciplinary field of academic enquiry. The impact of this shift is still evident in contemporary literary scholarship and pedagogy. The examples demonstrate how various theories have played a pivotal role in the institutionalization of literary studies. Through the provision of new methodologies, the fostering of interdisciplinary 11 E-ISSN: 2456-5571 connections, the expansion of the scope of analysis, and the influencing of curriculum development, these theories have helped establish literary studies as a rigorous and dynamic academic discipline. References Bennett, Andrew., and Nicholas Royle. An Introduction to Literature, Criticism and Theory: Key Critical Concepts. Routledge, 2004. Cixous, Hélène. ―Post-War,‖ trans. E. Prenowitz in Post Theory: New Directions in Criticism, ed. M. McQuillan, et al. Edinburgh University Press, 1999. Culler, Jonathan. ―Criticism and Institutions: The American University‖ in Poststructuralism and the Question of History, D. Attridge et al ed. Cambridge University Press. Eagleton, Terry. Literary Theory: An Introduction. Blackwell, 2008. Jameson, Fredric. The Political Unconscious: Narrative as a Socially Symbolic Act. Cornell University Press, 2005. Klages, Mary. Literary Theory: A Guide for the Perplexed. Viva-Continuum, 2008. Lodge, David (editor). Modern Criticism and Theory. Pearson, 1988. Vender, Helen. Part of Nature: Essays on Modern Poetry. Harvard University Press, 1997. Waugh, Patricia. Literary Theory and Criticism. Oxford University Press, 2006. Bodhi International Journal of Research in Humanities, Arts and Science