Defamiliarization

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A literary technique that disrupts familiar perceptions to enhance awareness of ordinary objects or experiences
2. A method used in art and literature to create a sense of strangeness and challenge conventional interpretations
3. An approach that encourages viewers or readers to see everyday things anew by altering their usual context or presentation

Etymology: The term "defamiliarization" has its roots in the Russian formalist literary theory of the early 20th century, particularly associated with the work of Viktor Shklovsky. Shklovsky introduced this concept in his 1917 essay "Art as Technique," where he argued that art should make the familiar seem strange in order to enhance perception. He believed that the primary function of art was to complicate the perception of the ordinary, forcing the audience to see things in a new light. This idea was not merely a theoretical abstraction; it was a call to action for writers and artists to disrupt the habitual ways in which people experience reality. The process of defamiliarization invites a re-examination of the mundane, encouraging individuals to recognize the strangeness inherent in everyday objects and experiences. By presenting familiar things in unusual or unexpected ways, artists and writers can break the automatic responses that often accompany routine perception. This notion has had profound implications not only in literature but also in film, visual arts, and even social commentary. The goal is to challenge complacency and provoke thought by revealing the extraordinary within the ordinary. The word itself is a compound of "de-" and "familiarization." The prefix "de-" suggests removal or reversal, while "familiarization" comes from the Latin root "familiarius," meaning "of a family" or "familiar." This combination effectively conveys the process of stripping away the comfort of familiarity, forcing individuals to confront and engage with the world anew. In English, "defamiliarization" likely emerged in the mid-20th century, gaining traction as literary criticism evolved and as the influence of Russian formalism spread westward. Its adoption into the lexicon of literary studies reflects a broader cultural push towards innovative expression and critical engagement. As the concept matured, it transcended its literary origins, becoming a tool in various disciplines. From psychology to philosophy, the ability to view the world through a lens of strangeness has proven invaluable for fostering creativity and insight. The idea that breaking the ordinary can lead to extraordinary revelations continues to resonate, making it a vital part of contemporary discourse on art and perception.

Synonyms: alienation, distancing