CC BY
0CULTURAL APPROACH TO LITERARY TEXT
Nuriddinova Maftuna
UzSWLU
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10938541
Abstract. The article explores the relationship between the cognitive processing of a literary text and the literary-aesthetic experience of real-life readers. It introduces the concept of foregrounding, which is the process by which a textual element becomes salient relative to other elements, allowing it to be more available for literary interpretation. Foregrounding theory, a leading theory in the empirical study of literature, has substantial literature supporting its concepts. The article discusses various failures in the reading process that can occur, drawing on the foregrounding model. These failures may relate to how readers engage with and interpret literary texts, highlighting the intricate interplay between cognitive processes and aesthetic experiences in reading.
Keywords: social hierarchy, spirituality, linguistic competence, cultural approach.
The category of information which suggests availability of some information and knowledge transferred through a specific bearer is one of the "eternals" and universal categories of science (Ursul, 1975; Chernavsky, 2004).
Literature serves as a mirror reflecting the society and culture in which it was created. The cultural approach to literary texts emphasizes the importance of understanding the context in which a work was produced to fully appreciate its meaning and significance. This approach recognizes that literature is not created in a vacuum but is deeply influenced by the cultural, historical, and social circumstances of its time.
One of the key aspects of the cultural approach is the idea that literature is a product of its culture. This means that literary texts are shaped by the values, beliefs, and norms of the society in which they were written. For example, a novel written in 19th-century England may reflect the social hierarchy and moral values of that time, providing insights into the attitudes and concerns of the society.
Another important aspect of the cultural approach is the concept of intertextuality, which suggests that literary texts are in dialogue with other texts and cultural artifacts. This means that authors often draw on existing literary traditions, myths, and symbols to create new works that resonate with their audience. For example, Shakespeare's plays are filled with references to classical mythology and literature, enriching the meaning of his works for audiences familiar with these texts.
The text is a form of expression of a deep semantic field of culture that allows us to speak about the cultural space of a literary text. (Ivleva, 2009)
The cultural approach also highlights the role of the reader in interpreting literary texts. Readers bring their own cultural background and experiences to their interpretation, which can influence how they understand and interpret a text. This approach emphasizes that there is no single "correct" interpretation of a literary work but rather multiple valid interpretations based on the reader's cultural perspective. A. Hodyakova defines cultural texts as "culturally-relevant texts, reflecting historical and cultural values of the people, their spirituality, aesthetic content, form, structure and lexicology. These texts often describe cultural objects (interpretive and
commentary), artifacts, language phenomena, traditions of the people, religious rituals, social rituals, holidays, biographies of cultural personalities, historical and significant events or natural phenomena, providing an emotional and moral impact on the reader (listener), evoking a certain sense of goodness, justice, or indignation". (Hodyakova, 2011, p. 79.)
Carter and Long (1991) have emphasized upon using literature as a resource and not just a study subject. According to them a literary text acts as a resource of knowledge about literature. The literary text allows learners to make connections between their own experiences and that of the writer of the text. This develops their critical thinking. Likewise, a study was conducted in Aurel Vlaicu University (Parkinson and Thomas, 2000) which supported this assertion. The study found out that literature can provide not only excellent writing and linguistic competence, but also offered mental training and developing interpretation skills especially in teaching poetry and literary criticism. As a result, it is necessary that literature should have sufficient representation in acquisition of linguistic and cultural knowledge of a foreign language.
Cultural influences on language and style in literature are profound and multifaceted, reflecting the rich tapestry of human experience and expression. Here are some key aspects to consider:
Cultural context often shapes the vocabulary and idiomatic expressions used in a literary work. For example, certain cultures may have unique words or phrases that convey specific cultural concepts or values.
Cultural norms can also influence the structure of sentences and the use of grammar in literature. For instance, some languages may prioritize different aspects of communication, such as politeness or directness, which can be reflected in the style of writing.
Cultural influences can be seen in the way stories are told and narratives are structured. Different cultures may have distinct storytelling traditions, such as oral storytelling, which can impact the style of written narratives.
Metaphors, similes, and other forms of figurative language can be deeply rooted in cultural symbolism and mythology. These literary devices often draw on cultural imagery and associations to convey meaning.
The use of dialogue and dialect in literature can reflect cultural diversity and regional variations in language. Authors may use dialect to authentically represent characters from specific cultural backgrounds.
Cultural movements and trends can influence literary styles and techniques. For example, the Harlem Renaissance in the United States or Magical Realism in Latin America were literary movements deeply rooted in cultural and social contexts.
When literary works are translated or adapted into different languages and cultures, the original language and style may be modified to suit the cultural norms and linguistic conventions of the new audience.
Understanding these cultural influences on language and style is essential for interpreting and appreciating literary texts in their full context. It allows readers to engage more deeply with the nuances and complexities of a work, and to appreciate the ways in which literature both reflects and shapes cultural identity.
One of the challenges of the cultural approach is the need for careful research and analysis to uncover the cultural context of a literary text. This may involve studying historical documents, exploring the author's biography, and examining the social and political context in which the work
was produced. However, this effort can be rewarding, as it can provide valuable insights into the meaning and significance of a work of literature. Next challenge of the cultural approach to literary texts is the potential for oversimplification or essentialization of cultures. When analyzing literature through a cultural lens, there is a risk of reducing complex and diverse cultures to a set of stereotypes or generalizations. This can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations of both the text and the culture it represents.
Another challenge is the difficulty of accurately representing the cultural context of a literary work, especially when the culture in question is unfamiliar to the reader or when the text is from a historical period with different social norms and values. Without a deep understanding of the cultural context, readers may misinterpret the author's intentions or miss important subtleties in the text.
Additionally, the cultural approach requires careful consideration of the relationship between the text and its cultural context. While it is important to recognize the influence of culture on literature, it is also crucial to avoid deterministic readings that suggest that a text's meaning is solely determined by its cultural context. Literature is often complex and open to multiple interpretations, and the cultural approach should allow for a nuanced understanding of the text that takes into account both its cultural specificity and its universal themes and messages.
In conclusion, the cultural approach to literary texts emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural context in which a work was produced to fully appreciate its meaning and significance. By exploring the cultural influences on literature, we can gain a deeper understanding of the societies that produced these works and the timeless themes and ideas that continue to resonate with audiences today.
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