John Crowe Ransom was a pivotal figure in American literary criticism and Modernist poetry. As the founder of New Criticism, he advocated for close textual analysis, focusing on the text itself. His work with the Fugitives group and his poetry, including 'Chills and Fever' and 'Two Gentlemen in Bonds,' contributed to the advancement of Modernist literature. Ransom's influence is also notable in the Southern Agrarian movement and through his mentorship at Kenyon College.
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John Crowe Ransom was born on April 30, 1888, in Pulaski, Tennessee
Vanderbilt University
Ransom studied at Vanderbilt University, where he developed a focus on philosophy and the classics
University of Oxford
As a Rhodes Scholar, Ransom continued his studies at the University of Oxford
Ransom served as an artillery officer in World War I before returning to academia
Ransom was a central member of the Fugitives, a group of Southern writers who sought to advance Modernist poetry in America
Chills and Fever" and "Two Gentlemen in Bonds
Ransom's collections of poetry explored themes of mortality, time, and nature
Notable Poems
Ransom's poems, such as "Bells for John Whiteside's Daughter" and "Dead Boy," are known for their contemplation of life and death
Ransom advocated for a return to agrarian values and practices in response to the industrialization of the American South
Ransom introduced New Criticism in his essay "Criticism, Inc." and further developed it in "The New Criticism."
Close Reading
New Criticism emphasized a close, analytical reading of texts rather than considering the author's intentions or historical context
Influence on Literary Scholarship
New Criticism became the dominant method of literary analysis in American academia during the mid-20th century
Ransom founded the influential literary magazine "The Kenyon Review" and mentored many students who went on to become notable literary figures
Ransom's contributions to poetry and criticism were recognized with prestigious awards, including the Bollingen Prize for Poetry and the National Book Award
Ransom's advocacy for meticulous textual analysis remains a cornerstone of literary education, ensuring his impact continues to resonate with scholars, critics, and students
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Birthplace and date of John Crowe Ransom
Born in Pulaski, Tennessee on April 30, 1888.
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John Crowe Ransom's academic background
Studied at Vanderbilt University and as a Rhodes Scholar at the University of Oxford, focusing on philosophy and classics.
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John Crowe Ransom's career post-WWI
Served as an artillery officer in WWI, then taught English at Vanderbilt, contributing to literary theory and poetry.
