Marxist Criticism- -Group 5

Well I must admit that when it was announced what school of criticism I would be studying, I wasn't too thrilled with the news that I was placed in the Marxist group. Why couldn't I have the joy of studying something that I knew a bit about, such as feminism or psychoanalysis? Essentially it came down to the reality that I was clueless about Marxism, a state of being which I am not especially fond of. There are two upsides to this story, however, which I discovered later.

First, I got placed with some really amazing students who have a passion for literature, great personalities, and the ability to get things accomplished. Ben-thank you for filming and editing and for your constant (and contagious) smile. Chelsea- you are a blast and I will always remember that shake of you head which says "you guys are ridiculous and I love it." Lisa-your cheerfulness and go-get-em attitude was such a pleasure to work with. Kyle- I don't know where to start, your beard was awesome and I hope Karl won't be upset that you didn't give it back. Heather-umm...I mean Don Quixote, you are a kick in the pants...you make me laugh all the time and you played your part perfectly. Danielle-I am glad you were willing to work things out so that you could be a part of this group, and you did a commendable job with the narration.

Second, I was able to learn something new. Learning is a gift and I am so thankful that I got the chance to dive into Marxist criticism and not only discover what it was but also see it throughout works of literature. Marxist criticism stems from the dialectical and socialist theories of Karl Marx. The focus is on the social class of the author and how that is reflected in his/her work, as well as the social hierarchies that are seen throughout the texts. Essentially, Marxists believe that a work of literature is not a result of divine inspiration or pure artistic endeavor (such as someone like Samuel Coleridge believes), but that it arises out of the economic and ideological circumstances surrounding its creation. When you put on the Marxist spectacles, you can see that many texts exhibit Marxist ideals. As we discussed on Wednesday, Don Quixote shows that struggle between the classes, especially when looking at the interactions between DQ and Sancho Panza. DQ is of the upper class so he believes himself to be above such things as paying for lodging...it is Sancho who ends up paying, suffering, and taking beatings that belong to his master because he is of the lower class.

Thank you Dr. Sexson, I admit that you knew what you are doing in making us complete all of these assignments and I acknowledge that you made the right choice when placing me in the Marxist group, thank you! =)