Changing Concepts of Literature and Criticism: From Plato’s Mimetic Theory to Leavis’s Moral Criticism

Abstract

The present study, titled “Changing Concepts of Literature and Criticism: From Plato’s Mimetic Theory to Leavis’s Moral Criticism,” explores the historical development of literary criticism from classical Greek philosophy to modern moral criticism. Literature and literary criticism have continuously evolved according to changing philosophical, cultural, and intellectual traditions. The study primarily examines Plato’s concept of mimesis and F.R. Leavis’s theory of moral criticism in order to understand how ideas regarding the nature, function, and value of literature transformed across different historical periods.

Plato viewed literature as an imitation of reality and questioned its moral and social influence, particularly in relation to truth and ethical discipline. Aristotle responded by defending poetry as a creative and valuable form of representation that provides emotional purification and universal insight. Later literary critics and movements gradually shifted the focus of criticism toward imagination, aesthetics, culture, and morality. In the modern period, F.R. Leavis emphasized literature as a means of developing moral sensitivity, cultural awareness, and intellectual refinement. His criticism highlighted the close relationship between literature and life.

The study adopts a qualitative, analytical, comparative, and historical approach based mainly on primary and secondary textual sources. Through comparative analysis, the research investigates the continuity and transformation between classical and modern literary criticism. It also examines how literature has consistently remained connected to ethical and social concerns despite major theoretical changes.

The study is expected to contribute to the understanding of the historical evolution of Western literary criticism and the changing concepts of literature and criticism from imitation to moral evaluation. It will also provide insight into the continuing relevance of literary criticism in understanding human values, culture, and society.