Literary Theory: A Very Short Introduction By Jonathan Culler
(Paperback, 2011)

Product Description

What is literary theory? Is there a relationship between literature & culture? In fact what is literature & does it matter? These are some of questions addressed by Jonathan Culler in this Very Short Introduction to literary theory Often a controversial subject said to have transformed the study of culture & society in the past two decades literary theory is accused of undermining respect for tradition & truth & encouraging suspicion about the political & psychological implications of cultural projects rather than admiration for great literature Here Jonathan Culler explains 'theory' not by describing warring 'schools' but by sketching key 'moves' theory has encouraged & speaking directly about the implications of theory for thinking about literature human identity & the power of language In this new edition Culler takes a look at new material including the 'death of theory' the links between the theory of narrative & cognitive science trauma theory ecocriticism &

Includes:: a new chapter on ' Ethics & aesthetics' This lucid introduction is useful for anyone who has wondered what all the fuss is about or who wants to think about literature today ABOUT THE SERIES The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly Our expert authors combine facts analysis perspective new ideas & enthusiasm to make interesting & challenging topics highly readable