An Experiment In Criticism by C. S. Lewis
- 1. An Experiment in Criticism is a thought-provoking work by C. S. Lewis, published in 1961, that delves into the nature of literature and the experience of reading. In this book, Lewis invites readers to reconsider how they approach literature, arguing that the way we engage with texts can significantly shape our understanding and appreciation of them. He posits that critics often focus on the author’s intentions or the historical context of a work, while he shifts the emphasis to the reader's experience. Lewis categorizes readers into two distinct groups: 'the uncritical reader,' who engages with a text without reflection, and 'the critical reader,' who seeks to analyze and interpret literature thoughtfully. Throughout the book, he explores the implications of these reader classifications and encourages a deeper consideration of literature as an art form that enhances personal growth and understanding. Through various examples and philosophical insights, Lewis champions the idea that reading should be a joyful and enriching experience, suggesting that the value of literature lies in its power to transform the reader. An Experiment in Criticism challenges us to reflect not only on the texts we read but also on ourselves as readers, ultimately advocating for a more engaged and mindful approach to literature.
What is the central argument of 'An Experiment in Criticism'?
A) Only professional critics can judge literature.
B) All modern literature is inferior to the classics.
C) Literary value is determined by how a book is read.
D) Literary value is determined by the author's intention.
- 2. According to Lewis, what should be the basis for judging a book's quality?
A) Its popularity among critics.
B) Its moral message.
C) The kind of reading it invites.
D) Its complexity and difficulty.
- 3. What is Lewis's opinion on judging literature by its moral content?
A) It is the most important criterion.
B) It is a limited approach to criticism.
C) It is irrelevant to literary value.
D) It should only apply to religious texts.
- 4. What does Lewis mean by 'receiving' a work of literature?
A) Recommending it to others.
B) Understanding all its references.
C) Memorizing key passages.
D) Allowing the work to act upon you.
- 5. How does Lewis view the relationship between the reader and the text?
A) The reader should surrender to the text.
B) The reader should dominate the text.
C) The reader should rewrite the text mentally.
D) The relationship should be purely intellectual.
- 6. What does Lewis say about the value of different genres?
A) Only serious fiction has value.
B) Any genre can produce valuable literature.
C) Poetry is superior to all other forms.
D) Modern genres are inferior to classics.
- 7. According to Lewis, what is wrong with reading only for 'messages' or 'themes'?
A) It reduces the work to abstract ideas.
B) It is the highest form of reading.
C) It helps understand the author's intent.
D) It is only appropriate for philosophy.
- 8. What does Lewis suggest about the emotional experience of reading?
A) Only positive emotions are valid.
B) Emotional responses are unreliable.
C) Emotions should be suppressed during reading.
D) Genuine emotional response indicates good reading.
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