Glossary


 * Aesthetics ** a branch of philosophy that deals with the concept of the beautiful and strives to determine the criteria for beauty in a work of art. ** Catharsis ** describes an extreme change in emotion, occurring as the result of experiencing strong feelings (such as sorrow, fear, pity). It has been described as a "purification" or a "purging" of such emotions. ** Literary Criticism ** is the act of studying, analyzing, interpreting, evaluating, and enjoying a work of art. ** Literary Theory ** covers all the assumptions (conscious or unconscious) that underlie one's understanding and interpretation of language, the construction of meaning, art, culture, aesthetics, and ideological positions. ** Memesis ** is the artistic representation –be it visual or verbal—of agents and events in the world. ** Practical Criticism ** (Applied Criticism): applies the theories and tenets of theoretical criticism to a particular work. ** Theoretical Criticism ** formulates the theories, principles, and tenets of the nature and value of art. It provides the necessary framework for practical criticism.