Texts—composed of language, an unstable sign system that always “defers” meaning.
Truth is constructed, not “given,” so there’s no such thing as A correct interpretation
Look for an apparent meaning of some aspect of the text ; show how the text undermines (deconstructs) it; look again & show how the text undermines the latest interpretation, etc.
Look for oppositions: good vs. evil, e.g. Show how the text undermines first one, then the other so that good and evil are exposed as “empty” concepts
*new historicism
Literature is one among many socially constructed texts. If there is a difference, it’s the intentional use of the imagination to convey ideas.
History is every bit as subjective as intentionally imaginative texts
Purpose of analyzing literature is to locate hidden social messages, especially those that promote oppression.
Texts have no final interpretation
Language, though socially constructed, is stable enough to be useful.
Find a small intriguing or odd piece of the text and interpret it by comparing it to contemporary sign systems—magazines, newspapers, fads, laws. Try to locate uses & abuses of power.
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