An Introduction To The Study Of English Literature And Literary Criticism

Fresh, original and compelling, An Introduction to Literature, Criticism and Theory is the essential guide to literary studies. Starting at ‘the beginning’ and concluding with ‘the end’, the book covers topics that range from the familiar (character, narrative, the author) to the more unusual (secrets, pleasure, ghosts). Eschewing abstract isms, Bennett and Royle successfully illuminate complex ideas by engaging directly with literary works – so that a reading of Jane Eyre opens up ways of thinking about racial difference, whilst Chaucer, Raymond Chandler and Monty Python are all invoked in a discussion of literary laughter. Each chapter ends with a narrative guide to further reading and the book also includes a glossary and bibliography. The fourth edition has been revised to incorporate two timely new chapters on animals and the environment. A breath of fresh air in a field that can often seem dry and dauntingly theoretical, this book will open the reader’s eyes to the exhilarating possibilities of both reading and studying literature.

An Introduction to Literary Studies provides an accessible and clear general survey of literature. Systematically taking in literary theory, genre, and history, Klarer provides easy to understand descriptions of a variety of approaches to texts. This invaluable guide includes sections on fiction, poetry, drama, and film. It also includes a range of theoretical approaches, an extensive glossary of major literary and cinematic terms, and guidelines for writing research papers.

First published in 1980, The Anatomy of Literary Studies provides students of English Literature with a clearer understanding of the significance and scope of the subject and a comprehensive background to its study. It gives pointers towards intellectual integrity and advice on independent study, libraries, essay writing and examinations. This reissue of Marjorie Boulton’s classic work will be of particular value to students studying English at university or those applying to a course who would like a fuller understanding of what it might entail.

Studying English Literature offers a link between pre-degree study and undergraduate study by introducing students to: - the history of English literature from the Renaissance to the present; - the key literary genres (poetry, prose, and drama); - a range of techniques, tools and terms useful in the analysis of literature; - critical and theoretical approaches to literature. It is designed to improve close critical reading skills and evidence-based discussion; encourage reflection on texts' themes, issues and historical contexts; and demonstrate how criticism and literary theories enable richer and more nuanced interpretations. This one-stop resource for beginning students combines a historical survey of English literature with a practical introduction to the main forms of literary writing. Case studies of key texts offer practical demonstrations of the tools and approaches discussed. Guided further reading and a glossary of terms used provide further support for the student. Introducing a wide range of literary writing, this is an indispensable guide for any student beginning their study of English Literature, providing the tools, techniques, approaches and terminology needed to succeed at university.