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Literary Theory

An Introduction
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( 5,698 ratings, 376 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Literary Theory by Terry Eagleton explores various schools of literary criticism, providing a comprehensive introduction to the subject. The book examines different theoretical perspectives, such as structuralism, Marxism, post-structuralism, and psychoanalysis, and discusses their historical context and influence on literary studies. It's a valuable resource for understanding the frameworks used to analyse literature critically.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by the way literature and culture intertwine and influence each other. It offers a comprehensive overview of different theoretical approaches, making it ideal for those keen on exploring diverse perspectives in literary analysis. Terry Eagleton's accessible style could particularly appeal to readers new to literary theory or those looking to deepen their understanding of the arts.

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First published in 1983, Literary Theory: An Introduction is probably the best-selling work of literary criticism in the world today. It propelled its author to a position of such influence and controversy within the British academy that even Prince Charles once described him as "that dreadful Terry Eagleton".

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

First published in 1983, Literary Theory: An Introduction is probably the best-selling work of literary criticism in the world today. It propelled its author to a position of such influence and controversy within the British academy that even Prince Charles once described him as "that dreadful Terry Eagleton."

A quarter of a century on from its original publication, Literary Theory: An Introduction still conjures the subversion, excitement, and exoticism that characterised theory through the 1960s and 70s, when it posed an unprecedented challenge to the literary establishment. Contemporary readers seeking to understand what literature is and what it is for will be inspired and entertained by Eagleton's deft synopses of the major movements in literary studies in the twentieth century.

Eagleton has added a new preface to this anniversary edition to address more recent developments in literary studies, including what he describes as "the growth of a kind of anti-theory", and the idea that literary theory has been institutionalised. Insightful and enlightening, Literary Theory: An Introduction remains the essential guide to the field.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Terry Eagleton's Literary Theory is lauded for its comprehensive and accessible introduction to the subject of literary criticism. It has been described as essential reading, shaping the academic landscape in Britain, offering insights into academic debates in an engaging manner, and providing a thorough survey of major theories from structuralism to deconstruction. The book is noted for its readability and usefulness both for academics and general readers interested in understanding the evolution of literary theories.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781405179218

Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 29 February 2008

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Wiley-Blackwell

Edition: 2nd Revised Edition, Anniversary Edition

Audience: Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 19.0mm

Width: 159.0mm

Height: 231.0mm

Weight: 369g

Pages: 248

About the Author

Terry Eagleton is John Edward Taylor Professor of English Literature at the University of Manchester. His recent publications include How to Read a Poem (2006), The English Novel (2004), Sweet Violence: The Idea of the Tragic (2003), The Idea of Culture (2000), Scholars and Rebels in Nineteenth-Century Ireland (1999), and The Illusions of Postmodernism (1996), all published by Blackwell Publishing.

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