Packaging Theory

Jeffrey Williams talks a lot about the growth of theory throughout the transformation of anthologies. I understand he thinks the best way to teach theory is to include the different types of theories throughout history to create one "perfect" course in theory.

Theories change throughout history, and what influences the theory of the moment is what people are experiencing at the time. Theorists and publications are going to be writing and will be written for the general audience to make a name and profit for themselves; theory is an industry, and I think that is what Williams is addressing in his article. Theory has shifted from critical reading and analysis to interpretation of reading. Culture and beliefs greatly influence what the public will believe. Williams states that those who are intellectual, or considered intellectual, will be the most influential. That is true in all cases of society. The more popular a person is, the louder the voice. But who determines who is popular, influential, powerful? Williams seems to address this topic beginning on page 285. The chronological model of theoretical anthologies presents the "superstars" of theory from start to present. If these theorists are worthy of being published in such a book, they must be important - the size of their name in the table of contents proves this. Therefore, they become unquestionable, unapproachable, and untouchable.

Williams also talks about how literature and theory have intertwined causing theory to become an "elite work in literary studies". This type of study is only for those of intellectual advancement, a very limited audience. Which leads to the argument who is determining what is worth reading and critiquing? Who gives whom the power?

When a person reads about a particular theory, whether it is a theory like feminism or a theorist like Foucault, that person is then influenced by the theory or theorist. This can cause a problem in the sense that where does the reader's thought end and the theorist's thought begin? The trend is, and this is what I believe, what is popular at the time is observed by the influential; the influential then state what is popular causing the public to agree and follow. That is what any kind of theory is based on, influence and power.

To find a balance now, with all of the theories available, is the trick. We must be open-minded enough to the theoretical differences, know the trends and understand the historical difference and importance among the theories. I think that is why Williams addresses the coincidence of the publications of anthologies as well as individualizing the major kinds of groupings of theories. Trying to balance everything is the goal; and if accomplished, the perfect theory course and the perfect theory, theoretically, can be created.