Literary Criticism and Cultural Change

The transcript discusses the speaker's early influences in literary criticism, particularly through education at Columbia and exposure to influential critics like Trilling. It highlights the historical significance of literature in expressing cultural identity and how this perception has evolved. The role of critics as moral arbiters is considered obsolete, with modern criticism focusing more on consumer guidance, often provided freely online. The speaker reflects on the changing landscape of literary criticism and its functions in contemporary society.

What inspired the speaker's interest in cultural criticism?

• A book they read in high school

• A teacher who studied under Trilling

• A famous author they met

• A family member's influence

How was literature viewed in the 20th century according to the speaker?

• As a form of entertainment

• As a means of personal development

• As the essence of a society's expression

• As a tool for political propaganda

What was the target audience for Trilling's 'The Liberal Imagination'?

• Academics

• General educated readers

• High school students

• Political leaders

What role did critics play in the 1950s and 1960s?

• Political advisors

• Entertainment providers

• Moral arbiters

• Educational instructors

What has replaced the traditional role of literary criticism according to the speaker?

• Online reviews

• Newspaper articles

• Television shows

• Radio broadcasts