Structuralism in literature is a critical approach that emerged from linguistic theories, particularly those of Ferdinand de Saussure. It analyzes literary texts as systems of signs and structures, focusing on the underlying patterns and relationships that create meaning, rather than the author's intentions or historical context.
Structuralism originated from the linguistic theories of Ferdinand de Saussure, who proposed that language functions as a system of signs. According to Saussure, meaning is not inherent in individual words or signs, but emerges from the relationships and differences between them within the linguistic system. This revolutionary idea was later applied to literary analysis.
Structuralism operates on several key principles. It looks beyond the surface text to uncover deep structures that govern meaning. It identifies binary oppositions like good versus evil, or nature versus culture, that organize narrative meaning. Structuralists search for recurring patterns, universal narrative grammar, and the relationships between textual elements that create coherent meaning systems.
In practice, structuralist analysis involves breaking down texts into their component functions and roles. Critics identify archetypal characters like heroes, villains, and helpers, and map how they fulfill specific narrative functions. They examine how stories follow universal patterns found across cultures and genres, revealing the underlying structural grammar that governs storytelling.
Structuralism profoundly impacted literary studies and beyond. It shifted critical focus from authorial intention to textual structure, influencing fields like anthropology, psychology, and linguistics. While later challenged by post-structuralism and deconstruction, structuralism established a scientific approach to literary analysis that emphasized systematic examination of underlying patterns and relationships in texts.