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Formalism is a critical approach in literary theory, art criticism, and philosophy that emphasizes the intrinsic qualities of a work of art or literature, rather than its historical, social, or biographical context. Originating in the early 20th century, formalism focuses on the structure, form, and technique employed by an artist or writer to convey meaning. This perspective argues that the essence of a work lies in its formal elements—such as rhythm, meter, syntax, or composition—rather than external factors like the author’s intentions or the cultural milieu in which it was created.

In literature, formalism examines how language and narrative devices function within a text. For example, a formalist might analyze the repetition of certain phrases in a poem to understand its rhythmic or emotional impact rather than attributing meaning to the poet’s personal experiences. Similarly, in visual arts, formalism evaluates elements like line, color, texture, and composition to interpret the artwork’s significance independently of its historical or symbolic associations.

Key figures in formalism include Russian literary critic Viktor Shklovsky, who introduced the concept of *ostranenie* (making familiar things strange) to highlight how artistic form disrupts automatic perception, forcing the audience to engage more deeply with the work. Russian Formalism, a precursor to broader formalist movements, also emphasized the study of literary devices such as metaphor, irony, and syntax as primary sources of meaning.

Formalism has influenced various fields, including structuralism and New Criticism, which further developed its principles. While critics sometimes argue that formalism neglects broader social or political dimensions of art, its contributions remain significant in understanding how artistic form shapes interpretation and experience. By prioritizing the work itself, formalism offers a rigorous framework for appreciating the inherent qualities that define creative expression.