In “Anatomy of Criticism,” Northrop Frye, a Canadian literary critic, outlines a comprehensive theory of literary criticism.

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He introduces several types of criticism that form the basis of his archetypal approach to literature. Here are the main types of criticism discussed by Frye in “Anatomy of Criticism”:

Historical Criticism:

Historical criticism considers the historical context and background of a literary work. It explores how the social, cultural, and historical conditions of the time in which a work was produced might influence its meaning and interpretation.

Ethical Criticism:

Ethical criticism is concerned with the moral and ethical dimensions of literature. It explores the ethical choices made by characters, the moral lessons conveyed by the narrative, and the impact of literature on readers’ ethical sensibilities.

Archetypal Criticism:

Archetypal criticism is a central focus of Frye’s theory. It involves the identification and analysis of recurring symbols, themes, and motifs, known as archetypes, that are common across various works of literature. Frye emphasizes the universality of certain narrative elements and their symbolic significance.

Psychological Criticism:

Psychological criticism delves into the psychological aspects of literary characters and their motivations. It explores the psychological complexities of characters, their desires, fears, and the ways in which their minds function within the narrative.

Rhetorical Criticism:

Rhetorical criticism focuses on the use of language and rhetoric in literature. It examines the stylistic devices, language choices, and persuasive techniques employed by authors to convey their messages and create specific effects.

Formalistic Criticism:

Formalistic criticism, also known as New Criticism, emphasizes the close analysis of the form, structure, and language of a literary work. It advocates for a focus on the text itself, independent of its historical or biographical context.

Mythic Criticism:

Mythic criticism involves the analysis of literary works in terms of mythical patterns and motifs. Frye suggests that many narratives can be understood as variations of archetypal mythic structures and themes.

Sociological Criticism:

Sociological criticism considers the relationship between literature and society. It explores how literary works reflect or challenge societal norms, values, and structures.

Generic Criticism:

Generic criticism focuses on the classification of literary works into genres. Frye emphasizes the importance of understanding the conventions and expectations associated with various literary genres.

Comparative Criticism:
- Comparative criticism involves the comparison of different works of literature or literary traditions. It explores similarities and differences across cultures, genres, or historical periods.

Frye’s “Anatomy of Criticism” is influential for its systematic and comprehensive approach to understanding and analyzing literature. By categorizing criticism into these types, Frye provides a framework for scholars to explore different dimensions of literary works, from their historical and cultural contexts to their symbolic and archetypal elements.