Question

Choose one or more options from below.
In contrast to traditional Historicism, New Historicism ________

• A. rejects the idea that history is an objective narrative of events unfolding in linear time
• B. does not make strict distinctions between literary and non-literary texts
• C. takes a particular interest in the textualisation of the material world
• D. takes history only to be a background and context for understanding literary texts

Hint:

New Historicism reads literary texts alongside historical documents to reveal networks of power and ideology.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, B, C

Step 1: Understanding New Historicism.
New Historicism challenges the idea of history as a neutral and objective record. It views both history and literature as discursively constructed and mutually influential.
Step 2: Analysis of correct options.
Option (A) aligns with New Historicism’s rejection of linear, objective historical narratives.
Option (B) is correct because New Historicism treats literary and non-literary texts as part of the same cultural discourse.
Option (C) is correct as New Historicism emphasizes how material conditions are mediated through textual representations.
Step 3: Eliminating the incorrect option.
Option (D) reflects traditional Historicism, where history merely provides background context rather than being actively interrogated.
Step 4: Conclusion.
New Historicism fundamentally rethinks history, textuality, and power relations, which is reflected in options (A), (B), and (C).
Final Answer: (A), (B), and (C)