“Secondary teachers can use Marxist literary theory to help bring into greater visibility the issues of power, class, ideology, and resistance that are embedded in the texts they read with their students” (Appleman, Deborah. Critical Encounters in High School English. Teachers College Press, New York, NY. 2000. pg. 62-3).
Before reading this chapter in Appleman’s book on teaching Marxist Literary Theory, I was immediately resistant and reluctant to ever use this particular theory based on my personal prejudices and preconceived notions about Marxist Theory. I believed that Marxist Theory was all about Communism and I was not about to teach Communism along with literature to high school students. After reading this chapter, however, my views have changed. Marxist Literary Theory is about teaching students to consider issues of class, social status, and power that are evident in many pieces of literature. Using this theory will enable students to reflect on a piece of literature’s characters, themes, and plots using a different perspective and will help students to relate these reflections to their own life.
My own prejudices make me think about how students will initially respond to Marxist Literary Theory; therefore, I intend on addressing these concerns by teaching students the differences between Marxism and using Marxist Literary Theory.
Has anyone else felt these same prejudices or preconceived notions?
Does anyone have any ideas on how to overcome the preconceived notions that students or their parents may feel?
2 responses so far ↓
1 Delbert // Oct 4, 2006 at 6:29 pm
One approach to teaching Marxist theory to students is to simply not call it what it is. Tell students that you will be reading and evaluating literature by bringing to bear the impact that class and status has on gaining meaning and the impact that class, status and world events had in the shaping of the actual work itself. After students buy into that and start using the techniques and have become comfortable with them, then tell them what it’s called. Personally, in the classroom, I don’t think I actually would even name it as Marxist theory unless I was in a community that was somewhat liberal and you’re likely given a fair chance to explain yourself if questions or concerns were to arise.
2 Angela // Oct 4, 2006 at 11:40 pm
Michelle,
I think many people experience similar concerns to yours when first considering introducing Marxism in the secondary classroom. Marxism as literary theory and Marxist political beliefs are often confused as being the same thing. I think the name Marx itself carries with it such a strong association with communism that initial concerns such as yours are only natural. I am glad to hear that you changed your perspective after reading the Appleman chapter. I agree with you that Marxism, like other literary theories, allows students the opportunity to gain a fresh perspective on a text.