Peculiarities of Applying the Historical - Functional Approach in Literature

The article analyzes the features of the method and methodology of the historical-functional method in literary criticism. This method is focused on the study of the perception of works of art of certain historical eras by readers of different social, professional status and age. According to the historical-functional method, the perception of fiction is formed by the directed action of the artistic system. The study and generalization of the reading experience of certain historical epochs makes it possible to trace the mutual influence of national literatures, the perception of certain literary forms and genres, the change in reader's sympathies and tastes at a certain historical stage in the development of literature.