Harold Bloom
Harold Bloom was an American literary critic and Sterling Professor of Humanities at Yale University. Born on July 11, 1930, in New York City, he attended Cornell University and later Yale University, where he obtained his Ph.D. Bloom is best known for his theories of the anxiety of influence and his staunch defense of the Western literary canon. He wrote extensively on the subject, arguing that what he considered the great works of Western literature surpassed cultural and ideological boundaries.
Throughout his career, Bloom wrote and edited hundreds of books. 'The Western Canon: The Books and School of the Ages' and 'How to Read and Why' are among his most famous works. His interest in literature was deep and abiding, focusing particularly on Shakespeare, whom he considered the central figure of the canon. Bloom's approach often involved psychoanalytic theories, which he used to explore the complexities of literary characters and their creators.
Bloom's influence extended beyond literary criticism. He was a public intellectual whose opinions reached a broad audience, making him a significant figure in cultural discussions. He was both celebrated and criticized for his views on literature and its role in society. Bloom passed away on October 14, 2019, leaving behind a substantial legacy in the field of literary criticism. His work continues to provoke discussion and inspire debate among scholars and readers alike.