Literary Studies: A Practical Guide provides a comprehensive foundation for the study of English, giving students the critical skills they need to best apply their knowledge. Designed to be used across English courses in the US, the authors begin by outlining the history of literary movements and theories, enabling students to connect important cultural and historical contextualizations. Specific focus is then given to the use of literary theory and the analysis of:
Poetry Plays Prose fiction and novels Films.
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.
Tison Pugh is Associate Professor in the Department of English at the University of Central Florida. He is the author of Queering Medieval Genres and Sexuality and Its Queer Discontents in Middle English Literature and has published on children’s literature in such journals as Children’s Literature, The Lion and the Unicorn, and Marvels and Tales.
Quite informative, even if a bit condensed in tracing literary history and oversimplified when it comes to literary criticism. Still an insightful and all-encompassing introduction for novice readers. Would definitely recommend to new students of literature.
Good for those who are just being introduced to the study (not just casual reading) of literature. However, if you're a university student that already knows the basics, this will (likely) not add much to your knowledge.