Jane Austen

Bloom's Classic Critical Views

by Harold Bloom, Amy Watkin

Noted for her witty depictions of English country life and sharply satirical views of class structure and human behavior, 19th-century novelist, Jane Austen's works possess a timeless appeal for both general readers and literary scholars. This volume showcases essays from Austen's own time period and beyond that create a portrait of this writer.

Genres: Nonfiction, Literature, Literary Criticism

189 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 1986

About the author

Harold Bloom was an American literary critic and the Sterling Professor of Humanities at Yale University. In 2017, Bloom was called "probably the most famous literary critic in the English-speaking world." After publishing his first book in 1959, Bloom wrote more than 50 books, including over 40 books of literary criticism, several books discussing religion, and one novel. He edited hundreds of anthologies concerning numerous literary and philosophical figures for the Chelsea House publishing firm. Bloom's books have been translated into more than 40 languages. He was elected to the American Philosophical Society in 1995.
Bloom was a defender of the traditional Western canon at a time when literature departments were focusing on what he derided as the "school of resentment" (multiculturalists, feminists, Marxists, and others). He was educated at Yale University, the University of Cambridge, and Cornell University.

Reviews

[Ci · Rating 3 out of 5]

I randomly stumbled upon this book in the local library and picked it up with delight -- who would not want to read another discussion about Jane Austen? yet this book serves a limited function as a study guide for people who may need to brush up their notes on these novels. The "Research" materials are comprised of various snippets extracted from essays that may have much bigger scope and even different focus. These essays are collaged together with unevenness. Some of them are useful, but I am not entirely convinced that they help me to continue enjoying Austen by itself. (It is a bit like hearing several side-way commentaries while trying to watching a good movie). However I do like these brief plot summaries and character sketches; they are competently if not entirely brilliantly written.

This book is part of a large collection under "Bloom's Major" (novelists, dramatics, poets, and short story writers). I personally do not intent to seek out another one.

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not Cliff's notes. While there are plot synopses and character lists, this is mainly a compilation of excerpts from essays about the books.

Like any compilation, the entries are uneven. There were definitely some intriguing essays and excerpts from books. I added Edward Said's Culture and Imperialism to my to read list after reading his excerpt.

[Saralyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lot of very interesting writings about Jane Austen and her books. Some of the writers seemed brilliant to me (they loved JA), while others seemed like idiots (they thought JA a waste of time). :) Didn't change my opinion of her in anyway, but broadened my view of her works and how others perceive them.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wanted a refresh on some of Jane Austen's book. This was perfect. It gives you a brief plot summary of her novels.