Structuralism and post-structuralism differ in their theoretical origins, tones, and projects. Structuralism derives from linguistics and aims to find reliable truths through logical deduction and systematic analysis. It uses a neutral, typical tone. Post-structuralism derives from philosophy and is skeptical in nature, questioning assumptions through word play, puns, and allusion. It sees language as threatening and reality as textual. Post-structuralism aims to deconstruct texts through highlighting contradictions, shifts, and absences rather than finding coherence.

1. Differences: Structuralism &
Post-structuralism
Name: Saryu D. Baraiya
Subject: Literary Theory & Criticism (Paper-VII)
Roll No: 27
Study: M.A.
Year: Semester – II
Submitted to: Department of English
University: Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University

2. Differences: Structuralism & Post-structuralism
Structuralism:
o It is a literary theory.
o It can be related it with text and make study of text.
o System of recurrent patterns or motifs.
o Studied the underlying structure.
Post-structuralism:
o Post-structuralism is a response to Structuralism.
o The rejection of the self-sufficiency of the structures.
o Closely related to Post-modernism.
o Argues that study of underlying structure is reason of bias and
misinterpretation.
o Study must be done on base of knowledge.

3. Differences: Structuralism & Post-structuralism
 Two types of differences:
Differences:
Structuralism &
Post-structuralism
Practical
Difference
Theoretical
Difference

4. Differences: Structuralism & Post-structuralism
Theoretical
Difference
Origins
Tone
and
Style
Attitude
to
Language
Project
By

5. Differences: Structuralism & Post-structuralism
Origin
Structuralism Post-structuralism
 Derives from Linguistics.
 Observe accurately.
 Collect data systematically.
 Logical deduction.
 Able to find reliable conclusion.
 Inherits Scientific outlook.
 Believes in system, method and
reason.
 Able to establish reliable truth.
 Derives from Philosophy.
 It is just oral.
 Sceptical by nature.
 Usually undercuts.
 Questions notions and
assumption.
 Inherits habit of scepticism.
 Fully conscious about the
irony and paradox.

6. Differences: Structuralism & Post-structuralism
Tone & Style
Structuralism Post-structuralism
 Abstraction and Generalization
 Derivation from linguistic science
 Example: ‘Introduction to the
Structural Analysis of Narrative’ (1966)
by Roland Barthes.
 Tone: Typical
 Step by step exposition.
 Complete with diagrams
 Style: Neutral and Typical
 Scientific writing
 Aim: Scientific coolness
 Much more emotive
 Bas on a word play
 Puns and Allusion
 Tone: Urgent and Euphoric
 Style: Flamboyant and Self-
consciously showy
 Aim: An engaged warmth

7. Differences: Structuralism & Post-structuralism
Attitude to Language
Structuralism Post-structuralism
 The linguistic medium
 An orderly system
 Not choice
 Use: To think and to perceive
 Language is threat
 Reality is textual
 Not achieving any knowledge
through language
 Verbal sign
 Meanings are fluid
 Not fully in control of language
 Constantly ‘SLIPPAGE’ of subject
 Metaphorical base of words
Use: to deconstruct a text

8. Differences: Structuralism & Post-structuralism
Project By
Structuralism Post-structuralism
 Questions our way of
structuring and categorizing
reality
 Free of habitual modes of
perception or categorization
 More reliable view of thing
 Much more fundamental
 Human being as an independent
entity
 Individual is a product of social
and linguistic force
 Tissue of textualities
 Scepticism as torch
 Burn away intellectual ground
 Western civilization built on it

9. Differences: Structuralism & Post-structuralism
Practical Differences:
Structuralism Post-structuralism
o Parallels / Echoes
o Balances
oReflections / Repetitions
o Symmetry
o Contrasts
o Patterns
o Effect: to show textual unity and
coherence
o Contradictions/ Paradox
o Shifts/ Breaks in: Tone,
Viewpoint, Tense, Time, Person,
Attitude
o Conflicts
o Absences/ Omissions
o Linguistic quirks
o Aporia
o Effect: to show textual disunity

10. Thank you….