A Critique of Chernyshevsky

Theoretical Studies in Literature and Art ›› 2016, Vol. 36 ›› Issue (3): 89-110.

• Studies in Western Literary Theory and Aesthetics • Previous Articles Next Articles

A Critique of Chernyshevsky

Li Jianjun

the Institute of Literary Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences

Online:2016-05-25 Published:2017-09-29
About author:Li Jianjun, Ph.D., is a research fellow in the Institute of Literary Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

Abstract

Abstract: In Chernyshevsky's literary criticism practice, reality has the absolute dominance over arts, and this leads to the extremity in his aesthetic concept, resulting in the one-dimensional, closed and narrow understanding of his aesthetics. This paper takes his concept of "life" as starting point to analyze his key views and examine the legitimacy and limitations of his utilitarianism, and tries to do justice to the acuteness, straightforwardness and prejudice in his literature criticism.

Key words:

Chernyshevsky, concept of life, art, utilitarianism, literary criticism

Li Jianjun. A Critique of Chernyshevsky[J]. Theoretical Studies in Literature and Art, 2016, 36(3): 89-110.

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A Critique of Chernyshevsky

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