Intentional Fallacies Lecture by Trinity King

Definition of Intentional Fallacy

• Intentional Fallacy: Assessing a work based on the author's intention rather than one's personal response to the work.
• Prominently used in 20th-century literary criticism.
• Intention vs. Understanding: Focus on understanding the text rather than authorial intent.

Role of Critics

• Critics often assume roles as cultural historians or psychologists.
• They analyze the artist's state of mind and personal life to interpret their work.

Example: Mona Lisa

• Ongoing debates about the Mona Lisa's meaning:
  • Is it her smile?
  • A secret cat in her expression?
  • Capture of a woman's soul?
• The artist's (Leonardo da Vinci) intention may outweigh modern interpretations.

Historical Context

• The term was coined in 1954 in the book "The Verbal Icon" by Monroe C. Beardsley and William K. Wimsatt.
• They criticized the notion that understanding an artist's intent is necessary for assessing a work.

Modern Applications of Intentional Fallacy

1. Music:

   • Lyricists use analogies and metaphors.
   • Example: Genius Verified (YouTube series) where artists explain lyrics.

2. Literature:

   • Easy access to author information and context through research.
   • Understanding the author's background can enhance comprehension.

3. Art:

   • Modern artists convey messages that are often shared via social media or websites.
   • Audiences can seek out information to better understand the art.

Recap of Key Points

• Intentional fallacy emphasizes the artist's intentions over individual interpretations.
• Recognizing the context and background of the artist is crucial for understanding the work.
• The concept is applicable across various forms of media including music, literature, and art.