THEORETICAL FOUNDATIONS OF IMAGERY IN LITERATURE

Аннотация

This article investigates the theoretical foundations of imagery in literature, focusing on its definition, function, and the interplay between language, culture, and sensory representation. It begins by establishing imagery as a critical literary device that employs sensory language to evoke mental pictures, emotions, and experiential depth. The study then explores how linguistic structures and cultural contexts shape the creation and interpretation of literary images, arguing that imagery is not a universal construct but one mediated by sociocultural frameworks. Key theoretical models-including cognitive theories of mental imagery, pictorial theories (e.g., Kosslyn’s quasi-pictorial representations), and description theories-are analyzed to demonstrate their implications for literary analysis. The article further examines case studies across diverse cultures and languages to illustrate how imagery bridges authorial intent and reader perception, while pedagogical insights highlight the role of visual art in enhancing literary interpretation. By synthesizing interdisciplinary perspectives, this work aims to deepen understanding of how imagery enriches textual meaning, reader engagement, and cross-cultural literary dialogue.