Literary Research Guide

A standard guide which evaluates important reference materials in English studies. Describes resources published since 1992.

The Handbook to Literary Research is a practical guide for students embarking on postgraduate work in Literary Studies. It introduces and explains research techniques, methodologies and approaches to information resources, paying careful attention to the differences between countries and institutions, and providing a range of key examples. This fully updated second edition is divided into five sections which cover: tools of the trade – a brand new chapter outlining how to make the most of literary resources textual scholarship and book history – explains key concepts and variations in editing, publishing and bibliography issues and approaches in literary research – presents a critical overview of theoretical approaches essential to literary studies the dissertation – demonstrates how to approach, plan and write this important research exercise glossary – provides comprehensive explanations of key terms, and a checklist of resources. Packed with useful tips and exercises and written by scholars with extensive experience as teachers and researchers in the field, this volume is the ideal Handbook for those beginning postgraduate research in literature.

Introduces general reference books, ready-reference guides, guides to manuscripts and dissertations, computer databases, and resources in rhetoric and composition.

Literary Studies: A Practical Guide provides a comprehensive foundation for the study of English, American, and world literatures, giving students the critical skills they need to best develop and apply their knowledge. Designed for use in a range of literature courses, it begins by outlining the history of literary movements, enabling students to contextualize a given work within its cultural and historical moment. Specific focus is then given to the use of literary theory and the analysis of: Poetry Prose fiction and novels Plays Films. A detailed unit provides clear and concise introductions to literary criticism and theory, encouraging students to nurture their unique insights into a range of texts with these critical tools. Finally, students are guided through the process of generating ideas for essays, considering the role of secondary criticism in their writing, and formulating literary arguments. This practical volume is an invaluable resource for students, providing them with the tools to succeed in any English course.

The fourth edition of Literary Research Guide adds entries describing resources published since 1997, many of which reflect the expansion of literary study into emerging fields (gay, lesbian, and transgendered studies and postcolonial theory). It also lists reliable Web sites sponsored by academic institutions and learned societies. The Guide concludes with name, title, and subject indexes.

Designed for those beginning an MA in Literature, this text provides an introduction to research techniques, methodologies and information sources relevant to the study of literature at postgraduate level. Contemporary theoretical approaches are also outlined.