First published in 1983, "Literary Theory: An Introduction" is probably the best-selling work of literary criticism in the world today. It propelled its author to a position of such influence and controversy within the British academy that even Prince Charles once described him as 'that dreadful Terry Eagleton'. A quarter of a century on from its original publication, "Literary Theory: An Introduction" still conjures the subversion, excitement and exoticism that characterized theory through the 1960s and 70s, when it posed an unprecedented challenge to the literary establishment. Contemporary readers seeking to understand what literature is and what it is for will be inspired and entertained by Eagleton's deft synopses of the major movements in literary studies in the twentieth century.Eagleton has added a new preface to this anniversary edition to address more recent developments in literary studies, including what he describes as 'the growth of a kind of anti-theory', and the idea that literary theory has been institutionalized. Insightful and enlightening, "Literary Theory: An Introduction" remains the essential guide to the field.
- ISBN10 0631201882
- ISBN13 9780631201885
- Publish Date 26 October 1996 (first published 12 May 1983)
- Publish Status Out of Print
- Out of Print 16 May 2008
- Publish Country GB
- Publisher John Wiley and Sons Ltd
- Imprint Blackwell Publishers
- Edition Anniversary ed
- Format Paperback
- Pages 248
- Language English