Canon

Introduction

The term “canon” in the context of literature refers to a collection of works considered representative of a period or genre. The literary canon includes works widely recognized as significant and influential, shaping the standards and narratives of literary culture. Often dictated by cultural, historical, and institutional influences, the canon dictates which works or authors are worthy of study and remembrance, and thus, it plays a crucial role in educational curricula and literary discourse. This can be somewhat controversial, as it sometimes reflects broader cultural biases or exclusions based on race, gender, or ideology.

Pronunciation:
/’kæn.ən/

When do writers use the Canon literary device?

Writers refer to or use the canon literary device when they aim to connect their works to a broader historical or cultural discourse. Engaging with the canon allows them to enter into a dialogue with established works, either by building upon them, contrasting with them, or critiquizing their themes and values. This engagement can lend authority to new works, enrich their literary depth, and provide readers with a framework for understanding the new texts in the context of older, widely recognized literature.

Rules for using the Canon literary device

To effectively use the canon in your writing, consider the following guidelines:

1. Know the Canon: Familiarize yourself with the works considered canonical in your genre or field. This knowledge will help you reference or build upon these works intelligently.
2. Engage Critically: Don’t just echo the canon; engage with it critically. Challenge, reinterpret, or expand upon the established works to provide fresh perspectives.
3. Contextual Relevance: Ensure that your references to canonical works are contextually relevant. They should enhance your narrative or argument rather than serving as mere name-dropping.
4. Balancing Act: While it’s valuable to engage with the canon, strive for a balance between reverence for the past and originality. Your voice should remain distinct and fresh.

Using the canon effectively in literature not only acknowledges the legacy of major works but also situates new contributions within a larger narrative, inviting readers to explore and question both the old and the new.

Types of Canon

The concept of “canon” in literature can be categorized into several types, each reflecting different aspects of cultural and literary significance:

1. Classic Canon: This includes works universally acknowledged as masterpieces across time and cultures, such as those by Shakespeare or Homer. These works are often taught in educational settings and are considered essential reading.
2. National Canons: These are works significant within a specific country or culture, helping to define national identity. For example, Mark Twain’s novels in the United States or Pushkin’s poetry in Russia.
3. Emerging Canon: This category includes newer works that are beginning to gain recognition as significant within literary circles and might one day be considered classics.
4. Genre Canon: Specific to genres like science fiction, romance, or mystery, these canons include works that define and set the standard within their genre categories.
5. Alternative Canons: These challenge traditional canons by focusing on marginalized or lesser-known authors and works, often highlighting issues of race, gender, and class.

Canon in Literature

Famous examples of canon in literature that have significantly influenced Western culture include:

• “The Odyssey” by Homer – A foundational text of ancient Greek literature and a staple of the classic canon.
• “Hamlet” by William Shakespeare – Central to the English literary canon, it’s studied for its thematic complexity and linguistic brilliance.
• “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen – A key novel in the canon of English literature, celebrated for its critique of the British landed gentry at the turn of the 19th century.
• “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville – A cornerstone of American literature, known for its ambitious narrative and complex symbolism.
• “One Hundred Years of Solitude” by Gabriel García Márquez – A defining work of magical realism and a significant part of the Latin American literary canon.

Canon in Children’s Books

In children’s literature, the canon includes books that have remained popular across generations, often for their timeless themes, memorable characters, and moral lessons:

• “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White – Celebrated for its theme of friendship and sacrifice.
• “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak – Known for its imaginative storytelling and exploration of childhood emotions.
• “Harry Potter Series” by J.K. Rowling – A modern canonical series that redefined fantasy literature for children and young adults.
• “The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis – A series that has become canonical in children’s fantasy literature.
• “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll – A classic of children’s literature that plays with logic and family-friendly surrealism.

Canon in Poetry

Canonical works in poetry are those that have shaped the art form, influencing generations of poets and remaining integral to literary studies:

• “The Divine Comedy” by Dante Alighieri – A cornerstone of Italian literature and one of the greatest works of world literature.
• “Paradise Lost” by John Milton – A monumental work in English literature, known for its elaborate depiction of the biblical story of the fall of man.
• “Leaves of Grass” by Walt Whitman – A seminal work in American poetry, celebrating democracy, nature, love, and friendship.
• “The Waste Land” by T.S. Eliot – A pivotal modernist poem, known for its complex structure and deep allusions.
• “Sonnets” by William Shakespeare – Integral to the English poetic canon, these works are celebrated for their expressive depth and mastery of form.

Canon in Songs

The canon in music, particularly in popular songs, includes works that have had a profound impact on culture and the music industry. Here are ten famous examples:

1. “Imagine” by John Lennon – Often hailed as a peace anthem, influencing generations globally.
2. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen – Known for its complex structure and remains a staple in rock music.
3. “Like a Rolling Stone” by Bob Dylan – Frequently cited as one of the greatest songs of all time, reshaping modern music.
4. “Respect” by Aretha Franklin – Became an anthem for the feminist and civil rights movements.
5. “Hotel California” by The Eagles – Iconic for its narrative style and symbolic lyrics.
6. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson – Famous for its groundbreaking music video and its impact on pop music.
7. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana – Defined the grunge movement of the early 90s.
8. “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye – A poignant reflection on social issues that remains relevant.
9. “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin – A monumental track in rock music, known for its intricate composition.
10. “Yesterday” by The Beatles – One of the most covered songs in history, significant for its melodic and emotional depth.

Canon in Movies

Movies that are considered part of the cinematic canon are those that have set standards in filmmaking, influenced generations of filmmakers, and captured the cultural imagination. Here are some notable examples:

• “Citizen Kane” (1941) – Often cited as the greatest film ever made, known for its innovative storytelling and cinematography.
• “Star Wars” (1977) – Revolutionized special effects in cinema and began a lasting legacy within global pop culture.
• “The Godfather” (1972) – A defining film in the crime genre that offered deep insights into family and power.
• “Pulp Fiction” (1994) – Known for its nonlinear narrative structure and rich dialogue.
• “Schindler’s List” (1993) – A powerful portrayal of the Holocaust, noted for its emotional depth and historical importance.
• “Casablanca” (1942) – A classic of Hollywood’s golden age, remembered for its timeless quotes and romantic drama.
• “Psycho” (1960) – A landmark in the horror genre and notable for its directorial techniques.
• “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968) – A seminal science fiction film that explored complex themes of evolution, technology, and artificial intelligence.
• “The Shawshank Redemption” (1994) – Celebrated for its poignant message of hope and redemption.
• “Forrest Gump” (1994) – Known for its blend of historical events with the story of a unique individual’s life journey.

Famous Movie Line Highlighting Canon

One of the most canonical lines in film history is from “Casablanca”:

“Here’s looking at you, kid.”

YouTube Link Demonstrating Canon

This link leads to a clip from “Casablanca,” showcasing the famous line that has become a pivotal part of cinematic canon.

Canon in Advertising

In the world of advertising, certain campaigns are considered canonical due to their innovative approach, cultural impact, or lasting memorability. Examples include:

• “Just Do It” – Nike – More than a slogan, it embodies the spirit of perseverance and determination.
• “Think Different” – Apple – Celebrated for its association with innovation and creativity.
• “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” – Old Spice – Redefined advertising strategies with its humorous and viral nature.
• “Dove Real Beauty Sketches” – Dove – Known for its emotional impact and focus on real beauty.
• “Where’s the Beef?” – Wendy’s – Became a cultural catchphrase in the 1980s and is remembered for its humor.

Canon-Related Literary Devices

Canon-related literary devices involve techniques and elements that reinforce the use of canonical works within literature:

1. Allusion: Referring to other texts within a work to enrich the meaning or to invoke a particular context or theme.
2. Intertextuality: The relationship between texts, where one text influences, reflects, or alters the meaning of another through direct or indirect references.
3. Adaptation: The process of adjusting a canonical work to fit into a different cultural or media context, often seen in the transition from book to film.
4. Parody: A humorous or satirical imitation of a serious piece of literature or canonical work.
5. Pastiche: A literary piece that imitates the style or character of the work of one or more other artists. Unlike parody, pastiche celebrates rather than mocks the work it imitates.