Russian Formalism - Introduction to Theory of Literature

Explore the foundations of Russian Formalism in this 49-minute lecture from Yale University's "Introduction to Theory of Literature" course. Delve into the works of major Russian formalists through Boris Eikhenbaum's essay, distinguishing formalism from hermeneutics and examining its roots in Marxist and Darwinian philosophies. Understand formalism's scientific approach and methodical aspirations, and grasp key concepts such as defamiliarization, the distinction between poetic and practical language, and the difference between plot and story. Analyze the formalist view of literature and literariness, and discover how the literary functions as historiography. Access complete course materials on the Open Yale Courses website for a comprehensive understanding of this influential literary theory.

- Chapter 1. Introduction to the Russian Formalist Tradition
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- Chapter 2. Boris Eikhenbaum
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- Chapter 3. Criticism of Perception: Defamiliarization
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- Chapter 4. Poetic Language and Practical Language
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- Chapter 5. Device as a Function
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- Chapter 6. Plot and Story
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- Chapter 7. The Literary as Historiography
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