How to Interpret Literature: Critical Theory for Literary and Cultural Studies - Hardcover

Parker, Robert Dale

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 019533471X ISBN 13: 9780195334715

Publisher: OUP USA, 2008

Synopsis

Designed for upper level courses in theory and criticism often required of English majors, this survey of key critical approaches to literature offers a fresh and accessible approach to the major movements in criticism. How to Interpret Literature updates the standard approaches to criticism, such as Structuralism, Deconstruction, Psychoanalysis and Feminism, and introduces cutting-edge areas of study for both student and instructor, such as Queer Studies, Postcolonial Studies, and Reader Response Theory. The informal tone engages readers and helps them to grasp the intimate connections not only between critical theory and their studies, but also its application to their lives outside the classroom. The volume is a nice counterpoint to our often-used and more formal work by Guerin et al, A Handbook Of Critical Approaches to Literature 5e, (OUP 12/04)

About this title

Review

"A must-read for anyone teaching or seeking to understand literary theory." --Christopher Hogarth, Wagner College "Robert Dale Parker's examples--personal, literary, cultural, and historical--vivify in often sprightly and unapologetically blunt language what could otherwise be a 'long, hard slog' through extremely intimidating material. His own pedagogical adventures and experiences in teaching literary theory and criticism provide an unexpectedly fresh narrative and contextual perspective." --Tiffany Gilbert, University of North Carolina, Wilmington

About the Author

is James M. Benson Professor of English at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Edition details

• Publisher: OUP USA
• Publication date: 2008
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 019533471X
• ISBN 13: 9780195334715
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 336