Literary Theory: A Practical Introduction

Now in its Third Edition, Literary Theory: A Practical Introduction presents a comprehensive introduction to the full range of contemporary approaches to the study of literature and culture, from formalism, structuralism, and historicism to ethnic, gender, and science studies. This edition includes new sections addressing theoretical approaches to literature relating to cognition, emotion, evolution, and animals, humans, places; an expanded section on Ethnic, Post-Colonial & Global Studies; and greater attention paid to film and cultural texts to reflect contemporary trends. Plus, a variety of classic literary texts newly considered for this edition include The Great Gatsby, The God of Small Things, Frankenstein, and more. Vividly demonstrating how the same classic and contemporary texts—when approached from different perspectives—can lead to surprisingly varied interpretations, chapters reveal illuminating insights into literary texts ranging from King Lear and Alice Munro’s short stories to the poetry of Elizabeth Bishop, along with noted works of films from Citizen Kane to Run, Lola, Run. The Third Edition of Literary Theory: A Practical Introduction is an invaluable resource for anyone tasked with the writing of a critical essay—while allowing all to gain a much deeper appreciation of the literature one reads.

Keywords: Literary & Cultural Theory