In the realm of literary criticism, Northrop Frye stands as a pivotal figure whose ideas have influenced the landscape of interpretation beyond his time. Frye's assertion that literary criticism should transcend its focus on individual works challenges the then-prevailing New Criticism. This movement, which emerged in the United States during the mid-twentieth century, posited that the text itself is the ultimate authority in interpretation, a stance that overlooked the broader context and lacked a cohesive vision of literature as a unified entity.

The latter part of the twentieth century saw shifts in critical theory with the rise of structuralism and deconstruction. These movements expanded the scope of literary analysis to encompass the entire corpus of literature, yet they were often preoccupied with the power dynamics within the cultures that birthed the texts. This approach demanded that each literary work be examined in isolation, free from the preconceived notions of dominant cultural narratives—a process that inherently questioned the Western classical and biblical influences that underpinned much of Frye's work.

Frye's contribution to literary criticism lies in his ability to serve as a mediating force, advocating for the exploration of relationships within a self-contained literary cosmos. His critical theories became foundational for a generation of academics. However, some critics have questioned whether Frye's systematic cycles and phases reflected more of his interpretative framework than the essence of literature itself. Despite challenges to the historical accuracy of the grand quest-myth central to his theory, Frye argued that regardless of its historicity, this archetypal narrative has profoundly shaped human storytelling and verbal expression.

Following the groundbreaking publication of Anatomy of Criticism, Frye expanded on his theories in a series of influential works. These included A Natural Perspective: The Development of Shakespearean Comedy and Romance (1965), The Return of Eden: Five Essays on Milton’s Epics (1965), and Fools of Time: Studies in Shakespearean Tragedy (1967). Each of these works further delineated his views on literary structures and themes. In The Great Code (1983), Frye explored the interplay between literature and the Bible, reinforcing his belief in the interconnectedness of literary and theological narratives.

Frye also addressed critiques of his work being overly insular through publications such as The Stubborn Structure: Essays on Criticism and Society (1970) and The Critical Path: An Essay on the Social Context of Literary Criticism (1971). These essays sought to position his theories within a broader social context, attempting to bridge the gap between his autonomous literary universe and the societal influences shaping literary expression. Through these efforts, Frye not only defended his approach but also enriched the discourse on the interplay between literature and society.