Leavis meaning

Leavis believed in the importance of literature as a moral and social guide for society.


Leavis definitions

Word backwards sivaeL
Part of speech The word "Leavis" is a proper noun.
Syllabic division Lea-vis
Plural The plural of the word "Leavis" is "Leavises."
Total letters 6
Vogais (3) e,a,i
Consonants (3) l,v,s

Leavis refers to F.R. Leavis, a prominent English literary critic, writer, and teacher. Born in 1895, Leavis made significant contributions to the field of literary criticism and education throughout his career.

Background of Leavis

Leavis was known for his close reading of texts and his emphasis on the moral and social responsibilities of literature. He was a key figure in the development of the "Leavisite" school of criticism, which emphasized the importance of close textual analysis and the rejection of what he saw as the pernicious influences of mass culture.

Contributions to Literary Criticism

Leavis's critical work often focused on the great English novelists, particularly those of the nineteenth century. He believed that these writers, such as Dickens and George Eliot, offered profound insights into human nature and society.

Impact on Education

Leavis was also a highly influential teacher, and his ideas about literature and culture had a lasting impact on the British educational system. He believed that literature should be at the center of a student's education, providing not only aesthetic pleasure but also moral and intellectual stimulation.

Overall, Leavis was a complex and controversial figure, known for his passionate advocacy of literature and his uncompromising critical standards. His work continues to be studied and debated by scholars and students of literature around the world.


Leavis Examples

  1. The literary critic F.R. Leavis was known for his controversial views on literature.
  2. Students studying English literature often come across Leavis's essays in their coursework.
  3. Many scholars consider Leavisian criticism to be outdated in today's literary landscape.
  4. Leavis's emphasis on close reading and moral seriousness influenced generations of readers.
  5. Critics have debated the lasting impact of Leavis's ideas on literary theory.
  6. Some argue that Leavis's narrow focus on a select group of canonical authors limits the scope of his analysis.
  7. Despite his critics, Leavis remains a central figure in the history of literary criticism.
  8. Students often struggle to grasp Leavis's complex theories and dense writing style.
  9. Leavis's insistence on a high standard of literary excellence continues to spark debate among scholars.
  10. The Leavis Society was founded to promote the study and appreciation of his work.


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  • Updated 08/04/2024 - 01:29:15