Harold Bloom

Date of Birth: July 11, 1930

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: October 14, 2019

Biography

Harold Bloom was an eminent American literary critic and Sterling Professor of Humanities at Yale University. Born in New York City, Bloom’s work spanned over six decades and covered a wide range of literary criticism and theory. He was particularly known for his defense of the Western canon at a time when it was under scrutiny. Bloom’s prolific career included writing more than 40 books, which delved into subjects such as poetry, religion, and the works of William Shakespeare. His most famous books include “The Anxiety of Influence” and “The Western Canon,” which have become seminal texts in the field of literary studies. Bloom’s erudition and passionate advocacy for the power of literature made him a towering figure in contemporary criticism.

5 Interesting Facts about Harold Bloom

1. Harold Bloom read poetry in multiple languages, including English, French, German, and Hebrew.

2. He was a self-proclaimed “gnostic,” and his work often explored religious and mystical themes.

3. Bloom coined the term “The Anxiety of Influence” to describe the struggle writers face in overcoming the influence of their predecessors.

4. He was awarded the MacArthur Fellowship, also known as the “Genius Grant,” in 1985.

5. Bloom was an outspoken critic of contemporary literary theory and was particularly critical of deconstruction and political readings of literature.