Historical Marker

Cleanth Brooks (1906-94)

Murray native Cleanth Brooks became a major figure in the teaching and study of literature. With fellow Kentuckian Robert Penn Warren, he co-founded the Southern Review and directed attention to close reading of literature-the "New Criticism"-through the influential texts Understanding Poetry and Understanding Fiction.

(Reverse) Cleanth Brooks (1906-94) - An acclaimed critic, Brooks wrote Modern Poetry and the Tradition, The Well Wrought Urn, and studies of William Faulkner's novels. A Rhodes Scholar 1929-32, educated at Vanderbilt and Tulane, he also received many honorary degrees. He taught at Louisiana State 1932-47 and at Yale 1947-75. Presented by citizens of Murray and professional colleagues.