Formalist criticism is a type of literary analysis that focuses on the structure, style, and language of a text, rather than its historical context or author's intentions. In formalist criticism, particular terms are frequently associated with analyzing how the text is constructed to create meaning. Let's look at each of the options:
Aura - This term, introduced by Walter Benjamin, refers to the unique quality of an artwork that arises from its originality and presence in time and space. "Aura" is not typically associated with formalist criticism; instead, it's more relevant in discussions of art history and media theory.
Actant - This term comes from structuralist theory, specifically narrative theory by A.J. Greimas. It refers to the roles that characters or entities play in a narrative, regardless of their specific identity. While it analyzes roles in narratives, it is not a core concept in formalist criticism.
Narratee - This term is used in narratology to describe the person to whom a story is being told within the narrative structure. Although narratology overlaps somewhat with formalism, "narratee" is more specific to narrative theory than formalist criticism.
Defamiliarization - This is a core concept in formalist criticism, introduced by Russian Formalist Viktor Shklovsky. Defamiliarization refers to the technique of making the familiar seem strange in order to make readers see common things in a new way, thereby enhancing perception.
Foregrounding - Another key term in formalist criticism, foregrounding involves emphasizing certain elements of a text to draw attention to them, often by using stylistic devices. This technique helps readers focus on specific aspects of the language or form of the text.
Answer Explanation
Since defamiliarization (D) and foregrounding (E) are both key terms in formalist criticism, the correct answer is:
4. D and E only
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