Evaluate F. R. Leavis as a literary critic.

Answer

Evaluate F. R. Leavis as a literary critic. [2021, 2016] ✪✪✪

Frank Raymond Leavis (1895–1978) was one of the most influential English literary critics of the 20th century. He was deeply influenced by T.S. Eliot (188-1965) and shared some ideas with the New Critics. But his criticism was broader and more humanistic. Leavis believed that literature and society are deeply connected. For him, literary criticism was not just a study of form or beauty but a moral and cultural activity. Let us evaluate him as a literary critic.

Leavis and the Nature of Criticism: Leavis saw literary criticism as a serious and moral activity. His aim was not only to analyze style or structure but also to explore the “quality of life” a work presents. He said, criticism should keep alive the human tradition and moral awareness. Like the New Critics, he valued close reading, but unlike them, he linked literature with real human experience. For him, the critic’s duty was to find in literature an “art of civilized living.” He always tried to protect moral and cultural standards in an age of industrialism and mass culture.

Influence of Eliot and Rejection of Romanticism: Leavis was greatly influenced by T.S. Eliot, especially his idea of “Tradition and the Individual Talent.” He opposed the Romantic belief in private inspiration and isolated genius. As he said, 

“We are apt to be under the influence of ideas and attitudes until rejected.” 

This line shows his rejection of the Romantic faith in emotion and inspiration. Like Eliot, Leavis believed that a writer must work within a living tradition. 

Balance between Individual and Society: Leavis believed that literature serves as the meeting point between individual talent and social culture. He said, 

“Without the individual talent there is no creation.” 

Yet he also added, 

“It is only in individuals that society lives.” 

These lines show his balanced view. For him, the individual and society depend on each other.