THE NOTION OF LITERARY CONCEPT

Abstract

This article explores the notion of the literary concept as a theoretical construct in literary criticism and cognitive linguistics. It examines the historical development of the concept from classical poetics to modern theories, including formalism and structuralism. The study analyzes the structure of literary concepts through conceptual, figurative, and axiological components. Special attention is given to explicit and implicit representation of concepts in literary texts, illustrated by examples from W. Somerset Maugham and O. Henry. The research also highlights the role of stylistic devices, intertextuality, and contextual determinism in shaping literary meaning. The findings demonstrate that literary concepts are complex mental structures that integrate language, cognition, and cultural context, influencing both interpretation and emotional response.