Literary Theory: A Practical Introduction - Softcover

Ryan, Michael

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0631172769 ISBN 13: 9780631172765

Publisher: Wiley–Blackwell, 1998

Synopsis

Michael Ryan′s comprehensive textbook on the practice of literary theory demonstrates how the full panoply of theoretical approaches can be used to read the same texts.

About this title

From the Publisher

Blackwell Publishers
LITERARY THEORY is the first comprehensive introduction to the practice of literary theory. It demonstrates how the full panolpy of theoretical approaches, from Formalism and Structuralism to Post-Modernism and Gender and Gay/Lesbian Studies, can all be used to read the same texts -- 'King Lear', Henry James' novella 'The Aspern Papers', and a selection of Elizabeth Bishop's poems. Each chapter consists of readings of all three texts through the optic of a single theory or method. The texts are read from every critical perspective. As a result, this unique book clearly illustrates the significant practical differences between contending literary theories and approaches, from Formalism, Structuralism, Post-Structuralism, Deconstruction, Psychoanalysis, Marxism, Feminism, and Historicism to Gender and Gay/Lesbian Studies, Ethnic Criticism, Post-Colonial Studies, and Post-Modernism. The book also contains chapters on Cultural Studies and Film Studies, with readings of 'Mildred Pierce' and 'Pulp Fiction'.

From the Back Cover

Michael Ryan’s Literary Theory: A Practical Introduction picks up where Terry Eagleton’s celebrated Literary Theory: An Introduction left off by providing actual readings from a variety of theoretical perspectives at the same literary texts. Drawing on the full range of contemporary critical approaches, from Ethic Studies to Historicism, Queer Theory to Post–Modernism, Ryan reads Shakespeare’s King Lear, James’s "The Aspern Papers," Morrison’s The Bluest Eye, and Elizabeth Bishop’s poetry.

The book is ideal for use in introductory courses on literary theory and criticism. It contains accessible accounts of each theoretical approach, and it demonstrates how the same classic texts can be read differently from different theoretical perspectives. Using Ryan’s models and his "suggestions for reading," students can pursue their own readings of these classic texts and develop the own skills at practicing literary theory.

Edition details

• Publisher: Wiley–Blackwell
• Publication date: 1998
• ISBN 10: 0631172769
• ISBN 13: 9780631172765
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 176