What is intentional fallacy?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the concept of intentional fallacy, which refers to the error of interpreting a work of art based on the author's intended meaning or purpose, rather than understanding it as an independent entity. This question is likely seeking an explanation or discussion of the concept in literary or art criticism.
Answer
The belief that a literary work should be judged based on the author's intentions.
The intentional fallacy is the idea that one can evaluate a literary work properly by trying to assume the author’s intentions. Instead, the work should be judged on its own merits.
Answer for screen readers
The intentional fallacy is the idea that one can evaluate a literary work properly by trying to assume the author’s intentions. Instead, the work should be judged on its own merits.
More Information
The term 'intentional fallacy' was introduced by W.K. Wimsatt and Monroe Beardsley in their 1946 essay 'The Intentional Fallacy'. It emphasizes that the meaning or value of a work of art should be derived from the text itself rather than the author's intent.
Tips
Common mistakes include fixating on the author's biography or statements to interpret the text instead of focusing on the text’s content and structure.
Sources
- Intentional fallacy | Rhetoric, Poetry, Analysis - Britannica - britannica.com
- Intentional fallacy - Oxford Reference - oxfordreference.com
- The Intentional Fallacy | Author's Intent & Summary - Lesson - study.com
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