Iser's Aesthetic Response Theory Viewed in the Context of Collaborative Hyperfictions

Natalie Ward, University of Pennsylvania

Abstract

In 1978, Wolfgang Iser wrote his most influential book, The Act of Reading, which details his theories about aesthetic reader response. Since the publishing of The Act of Reading, the pervasive use of personal computers and the internet has introduced new forms of fiction, including collaborative hyperfictions. This paper presents an analysis of Iser's theories in relation to collaborative hyperfictions. It explains how upon juxtaposing the conventions of collaborative hyperfictions and Iser's aesthetic response theories, one finds that hyperfictions are not as revolutionary as some authors and critics would believe. However, this juxtaposition also reveals the ways in which Iser's theories need to be updated for the digital age, and also the ways in which storytelling may evolve in the coming years.

Discipline(s)

English Language and Literature

Suggested Citation

Ward, Natalie, "Iser's Aesthetic Response Theory Viewed in the Context of Collaborative Hyperfictions" 15 April 2006. CUREJ: College Undergraduate Research Electronic Journal, University of Pennsylvania, https://repository.upenn.edu/curej/42.