. Explain the function of criticism ? # Leaving aside the wrangling of critics regarding critical theories , and the confusion and chaos which confronts such an inquiry, let us consider in detail the function of criticism . Literary criticism is the play of the mind on a work of literature and it consists in asking and answering rational questions about literature . Such an inquiry may be directed either: 1- Towards literature in general leading to a better understanding of the nature and value of literature , and a better appreciation of the pleasure proper to literature . 2- The inquiry may be directed towards particular works of literature , and its individual and distinctive qualities may be examined . The matter , the manner , the technique and language of a piece of literature may be put to searching examination and in this way its literary worth may be assessed . Thus the function of criticism is not fault-finding as it is supposed to be by the layman . Its function is not to pick roles in a given work of literature nor is its function to eulogize or laud some favorite author