historical criticism
"Historical criticism" involves examining texts in the context of the time and conditions in which they were created, providing deeper insights into their meaning and significance.
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Definition
C1Literary Analysis
(academic, technical)A method of analyzing texts by considering the historical context, including the author's background and the cultural and social conditions of the time.
Example
- Using historical criticism, the scholar revealed how the author's personal experiences influenced the novel's themes.
C1Biblical Studies
(academic, technical)An approach to understanding biblical texts by investigating the historical circumstances of their creation, including the cultural milieu and historical events of the period.
Example
- Historical criticism helped uncover the social and political influences on the writing of the Gospel of Mark.
C1General Historical Analysis
(academic, technical)A scholarly practice that examines the origins and development of texts by situating them within their specific historical contexts.
Example
- Through historical criticism, the researcher traced the evolution of the document's themes over time.