Exploring the connection between storytelling and emotional patterns, this book delves into the specific structures that resonate with audiences. It examines how certain themes and emotional arcs shape narratives that captivate readers, revealing the underlying frameworks that make stories memorable and impactful. By analyzing admired tales, the author uncovers the psychological principles that drive engagement and connection in storytelling.
Cognitive and Cultural Studies of Literary Tradition and Colonialism
Exploring the intricate dynamics of colonized writers, the book delves into the interplay between metropolitan and indigenous literary traditions. It highlights influential theorists Judith Butler and Homl Elhabiria while reassessing notable Nigerian critics Chinweizu, Jemleand Madubulke. The author introduces a groundbreaking theory of literary identity, linking insights from cognitive science and cultural studies, positing that literary traditions are deeply personal constructs rather than mere group identities, which can be misleading and perilous.
The book delves into the cognitive processes behind literary creation, suggesting that the imaginative techniques used by renowned authors mirror our own everyday hypothetical and counterfactual thinking. It examines the intersection of creativity and cognition, revealing how these mental processes shape both literature and our daily lives.
The book provides a critical analysis of how colonized individuals engage with both metropolitan ideas and indigenous traditions, challenging conventional views on mimeticism and hybridity. It presents a clear theoretical framework for understanding postcolonial phenomena, applicable beyond literature. By examining major works from authors like Derek Walcott, Jean Rhys, and Chinua Achebe, the author enriches the reader's comprehension of cultural contexts and the complexities of postcolonial identity.
This book explores emotion in a range of literary works, in the context of current neurobiological, psychological, sociological and other empirical research.
Exploring the intersection of cognitive science and the humanities, this book highlights how understanding brain function can deepen our appreciation of literature. The author discusses major cognitive theories relevant to literary studies, illustrating how they inform our emotional and intellectual responses to texts. By bridging these disciplines, the work offers fresh insights into the creation and interpretation of literature, making it a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike.
Culture, Cognition, and Cinematic Imagination
Indian cinema enjoys global popularity but often faces misunderstanding and underappreciation in English-speaking regions. This disconnect is largely attributed to cultural differences that hinder a deeper appreciation of these films. The book explores the nuances of Indian movies, aiming to bridge the gap in understanding and highlight their significance within a broader cultural context.
Exploring the complexities of nationalism, the book delves into its historical impact from Nazism to modern conflicts like Kashmir. It highlights the often-misunderstood motivational power of nationalism through the lens of cognitive psychology, distinguishing various forms of identity formation. By synthesizing empirical research, the author articulates a foundational understanding of the motivations behind nationalist thought and actions, offering insights into the psychological underpinnings of group relations and identity.
Exploring the intersection of authorship and narration, this work delves into recent findings from cognitive and affective science. It challenges traditional perspectives, offering fresh insights into how these elements shape storytelling and influence reader engagement. The book invites readers to rethink the roles of both authors and narrators in the creative process, providing a thought-provoking analysis of narrative construction and its psychological impact.
Exploring the intersection of neuroscience and philosophical aesthetics, the book delves into our responses to beauty and sublimity. It distinguishes between innate aesthetic appreciation and socially constructed notions of beauty, analyzing emotional engagement and cognitive processing. Key themes include the reconciliation of universal aesthetic principles with personal experiences, the rational discourse surrounding aesthetic judgments, and the impact of personal beauty on art's definition. The analysis is enriched by references to influential figures like Woolf, Shakespeare, and Beethoven.