Abstract

This article explores the intricate relationship between aesthetics and literature, questioning whether aesthetics has been forsaken in contemporary Turkish literature. By examining historical and philosophical perspectives, the study delves into the evolving definitions of aesthetics, from Baumgarten's foundational theories to the nuanced approaches of Kant, Schiller, and Wittgenstein. Central to the discussion is the concept of literary aesthetics, emphasizing the role of imagery, cultural codes, and textual coherence in shaping aesthetic judgment. The article further investigates the interplay between the reader's subjective experience and the inherent textual features that evoke literary pleasure. Addressing the challenges posed by the commodification of literature and the diminishing role of critics, it underscores the necessity of cultivating an informed readership and revitalizing critical discourse. This comprehensive analysis highlights the transformative potential of aesthetics in literature while cautioning against its erosion in the absence of rigorous critical engagement.