Which of the following statements are true about New Historicism?

1. A. It does not use 'thick description'.
2. B. Literary works are not autonomous or timeless.
3. C. History is always narrated, a matter of interpretation.
4. D. All historical analysis is objective.
5. E. History is neither progressive nor linear.

1. A(A) and (E) only
2. B(A) and (C) only
3. C(C) and (E) only
4. D(A) and (B) only

Pick an option to check yourself, or open the answer below.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. (C) and (E) only

Explanation

Greenblatt and Montrose borrow Geertz's thick description, treat history as textual (the 'historicity of texts and textuality of history') and reject teleological, progressive history. Only option 3 pairs true statements.

Note: Statement B is also true in itself, but no option pairs it with another true statement.