Harold Bloom

Harold Bloom

Harold Bloom was born on July 11th, 1930

Full Name: Harold Bloom
Birthplace: New York City, USA
Nationality: American
Profession: Literary Critic, Scholar
Education: Cornell University, Yale University
Notable Works: The Anxiety of Influence, Shakespeare: The Invention of the Human
Awards: MacArthur Fellowship, National Medal of Arts
Teaching: Yale University, New York University

A prominent literary critic and scholar who wrote extensively on Western literature, advocating for the importance of reading and understanding the classics. His work has shaped literary theory and criticism, influencing generations of scholars and readers.

Written by: Emma Thompson Emma Thompson

Harold Bloom: The Unapologetic Champion of the Western Canon

Harold Bloom, the renowned American literary critic, is perhaps best known for his unwavering defense of the traditional Western canon, a stance that has both earned him accolades and sparked controversy throughout his illustrious career. As the Sterling Professor of Humanities at Yale University, Bloom has spent decades championing the works of Shakespeare, Keats, and other literary giants, while also sparking debate with his critiques of modern literary theory.

A Life Devoted to Letters

Born on July 11, 1930, in New York City, Bloom was raised in a Yiddish-speaking Orthodox Jewish household, where he developed a love for literature and poetry from an early age. He went on to study classics at Cornell University, earning his B.A. in 1951, and later received his Ph.D. from Yale in 1955. Bloom's academic pursuits took him to Pembroke College, Cambridge, where he was a Fulbright Scholar in 1954-1955.

A Prolific Career

With a career spanning over six decades, Bloom has written more than 50 books, including over 40 works of literary criticism, several books on religion, and one novel. His literary output has been nothing short of astounding, with his books translated into over 40 languages. Bloom has also edited hundreds of anthologies on various literary and philosophical figures for the Chelsea House publishing firm.

The Defender of the Canon

Bloom's most significant contribution to the world of literature is his unyielding defense of the traditional Western canon. He has been a vocal critic of modern literary theory, which he believes has led to the devaluation of great works of literature. Bloom's critiques of multiculturalism, feminism, and other ideologies, have sparked debate and controversy, earning him both praise and criticism from his peers.

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

Bloom's philosophical contributions are deeply rooted in his love for literature and his belief in the power of great works to shape our understanding of the human experience. He has been influenced by the works of Friedrich Nietzsche, Sigmund Freud, and other great thinkers, and has developed his own theories on the nature of literature and its relationship to human existence.

Awards and Honors

Bloom's contributions to literature and academia have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. He was elected to the American Philosophical Society in 1995 and has received several honorary degrees from prestigious institutions.

Controversies and Public Perception

Bloom's unapologetic defense of the Western canon has sparked controversy and debate, with some critics accusing him of being elitist and out of touch with modern literary trends. Despite this, Bloom remains unapologetic, believing that great literature has the power to transcend time and culture.

Quotes and Memorable Sayings

Legacy

Harold Bloom's legacy is that of a champion of great literature, a defender of the Western canon, and a passionate advocate for the power of literature to shape our understanding of the human experience. His contributions to literary theory and criticism have had a profound impact on the academic community, and his works continue to inspire and provoke readers to this day.

Timeline
1930
Born in New York City
Harold Bloom was born on July 11, 1930, in New York City. He would go on to become a renowned literary critic.
1951
Graduated from Cornell
Bloom graduated from Cornell University, where he studied literature and philosophy.
1961
Became a professor at Yale
Bloom became a professor at Yale University, where he taught English literature for over 50 years.
1973
Published The Anxiety of Influence
Bloom published The Anxiety of Influence, a seminal work of literary criticism.
2019
Passed away at 89
Harold Bloom passed away on October 14, 2019, at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential literary critics of his generation.
Harold Bloom

Harold Bloom Quiz

What is Harold Bloom's primary area of expertise?

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FAQ
What is Harold Blooms literary theory?
Harold Bloom is an American literary critic and scholar known for his theory of literary influence, which posits that great writers are driven by a desire to surpass their literary predecessors. He argues that this anxiety of influence shapes the course of literary history.
What are Harold Blooms most notable literary criticisms?
Harold Blooms most notable literary criticisms include his works on William Shakespeare, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and Emily Dickinson. He has also written extensively on the Western literary canon and the nature of literary genius.
How has Harold Bloom influenced literary studies?
Harold Bloom has had a profound influence on literary studies, shaping the way scholars approach the study of literature and its relationship to history and culture. His work has inspired a generation of literary critics and theorists.
What is Harold Blooms contribution to Shakespearean studies?
Harold Blooms contribution to Shakespearean studies is immense, as he has written extensively on the Bards works. His book Shakespeare: The Invention of the Human (1998) is a landmark study of Shakespeares plays and their impact on Western literature.
What is Harold Blooms legacy in literary criticism?
Harold Blooms legacy in literary criticism is that of a towering figure who has reshaped our understanding of literature and its role in human culture. His work continues to inspire and challenge scholars, ensuring his influence will be felt for generations to come.

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