Literary Theory: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions)

Culler traces several paths through this boundless philosophical landscape. Seven such paths actually, exploring aspects of language, identity and meaning. These constitute as gentle an introduction as is possible. In fact, it is difficult to imagine a better guide than Culler, with his clear and elegant style and his breadth of knowledge. Although this is not a conventional school-by-school primer, there is a section at the end briefly summarizing the major schools, from Russian Formalism to Queer Theory (yes, you heard right). The author advises that you can read these summaries before, after, or during the main text. I recommend leaving them until after, when they will be a lot more meaningful. Otherwise, they might frighten you off from reading the text itself.

The illustrations consist of a half-dozen or so vaguely relevant cartoons. I suppose, as this series is illustrated, OUP felt obliged to include something, even if the text had no need of it. More positively, this book is blessedly free of the typos that normally bedevil the series.

If you wish to 'dip your toe in the water' of literary theory (and be warned, it is a maelstrom) Culler's book is the perfect place to do it.


indepensible for all students and lovers of literature   October 5, 1999
15 out of 18 found this review helpful

Culler makes the subject of Lit. theory interesting, after generations who had to endure Gavin Ross's laborious essays on criticism this is of welcome relief. A fantastic read and as textbooks go it is stunning.


Superb Introduction, Clear Writing   May 25, 2007
Asp
3 out of 3 found this review helpful

If only every book in the Very Short Introduction-series was written as lucidly as this volume I would buy them all without hesitation.

The author does a miraculous job of sorting out the maze of the field of Litterary Science which has argurably been to eager in its choice of theory for the past 50-60 years. After reading this volume, however, you will have an adequate overview of the field and it will be within your possession to choose amongst the theories which interest you.

Highly recommended!


The best of it's kind   December 3, 2000
15 out of 21 found this review helpful

The thematic approach of this book is very effective. Issues are discussed without waffle, or ego. Overall a must for anyone studying English.


Great little intro   March 18, 2007
Mr. Peter Coville (Oxford, UK)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

This is an enjoyable and very clear introduction to what can often be a rather obscure domain. I can warmly recommend it to anyone who's reading this!