Literary Theory: An Introduction Second Edition

In Literary Theory: An Introduction (1983, revised 1996), Eagleton surveys the history of theoretical approaches to literature, from its beginnings with Matthew Arnold, through formalism, psychoanalysis, and structuralism, to post-structuralism. This Classic Work Is Designed To Cover All Of The Major Movements In Literary Studies In This Century. Noted For Its Clear, Engaging Style And Unpretentious Treatment, Literary Theory Has Become The Introduction Of Choice For Anyone Interested In Learning About The World Of Contemporary Literary Thought. The Second Edition Contains A Major New Survey Chapter That Addresses Developments In Cultural Theory Since The Book's Original Publication In 1983, Including Feminist Theory, Postmodernism, And Poststructuralism.--jacket. The Rise Of English -- Phenomenology, Hermenuetics, Reception Theory -- Structuralism And Semiotics -- Post Structuralism -- Psychoanalysis. Terry Eagleton. Includes Bibliographical References (p. 217-223) And Index. Contents ......Page 6 Preface to the Second Edition ......Page 8 Preface ......Page 10 Introduction: What is Literature? ......Page 12 1 The Rise of English ......Page 26 2 Phenomenology, Hermeneutics, Reception Theory ......Page 58 3 Structuralism and Semiotics ......Page 90 4 Post-Structuralism......Page 121 5 Psychoanalysis ......Page 142 Conclusion: Political Criticism ......Page 180 Afterword ......Page 201 Notes ......Page 220 Bibliography ......Page 228 Index ......Page 235 This classic work covers all of the major movements in literary studies in this century. Noted for its clear, engaging style and unpretentious treatment, Literary Theory has become the introduction of choice for anyone interested in learning about the world of contemporary literary thought. Helps readers to understand what literature is and what it is for. This book addresses the developments in literary studies, including what the author describes as 'the growth of a kind of anti-theory', and the idea that literary theory has been institutionalized.