Modern Literary Theory: A Reader

by Philip Rice (Editor), Patricia Waugh (Editor)

Covering the key theoretical approaches in modern literary theory, the text includes essays and documents that are essential reading for students of literature and critical theory. The original structure of the book has been improved and new material has been added, including extracts from the writings of Marx, Freud, and de Beauvoir, and a new section devoted to contemporary critical debates and issues.

Genres: Nonfiction, Literary Criticism, British Literature, Theory, Reference, Academia, Essays

512 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1989

Reviews

[EvaLovesYA · Rating 3 out of 5]

Also posted on Eva Lucias blog

Modern Literary Theory: A Reader by Patricia Waugh is an excellent tool to use for academic, theoretical and analytical approaches for studying literature in general. I used this source for my MA studies in English literature (in 2015) and found it very informal and a fine guide to reading and learning more about literary theory.

It deals with different theories, for example structuralism, formalism, Marxism, feminism, deconstruction, gender, textuality, postmodernism, criticism, value of reading etc. I specifically enjoyed the parts about Harold Bloom and his thoughts on reading literature.

However, this source is written in an academic and sometimes difficult language. The content is detailed and very thorough but it could have been conveyed better to the reader. If you agree, I would recommend A Reader’s Guide to Contemporary Literary Theory by Raman Selden. It varies a bit in content but is mostly the same – and very easy to read and understand. This actually saved me in my understanding of the content.

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[Anastasia · Rating 2 out of 5]

I've been cleaning out my bookshelf--not virtually but physically, in the sense that I'm out of space again--and I came across piles of my old literary theory textbooks. This is one of them, and I can't say it would have ever made my "want to read" list: if anything drove me out of being a pure english major, it was this book. It's a collection of essays by the sort of academic literary theorists who at times seem determined to suck any joy or life that might remain in the experience of text. It made my realize that if I stayed an english major I might someday have to pick up my fantasy novels and be unable to enjoy them: a terrifying thought. I eventually learned better and embraced theory in all its crazy glory, but books like this don't make it easy.

[Eve · Rating 1 out of 5]

fucking bad. impossible. if you need to learn about modernism, or whatever, go somewhere else. Wikipedia is free and written in a way that you're supposed to understand, and has handy-dandy citations with links for you to look at. I wish I never cursed my eyes by opening this thing, and I wish I never cursed my purse with its purchase.

[Beatriz · Rating 2 out of 5]

Although I am rating this book now, I must admit I didn't finish it. Modern Literary Theory follows the main critical movements of the twentieth century, providing essays written by the key authors. I though the first part of the book, which refers to Saussure and its influence on critical theory is insightful, but the section named Structuralism was dull and difficult to read for me as a beginner. This was the last section I read. I think this book may be helpful for someone who is already acquainted with the basics in critical thought, but not for someone who is starting to study the subject.

[Mes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can't say I immensely enjoyed it - c'mon, it's lit theory. Kinda hard to enjoy, even if you are passionate about literature. It is useful, however, and collects the most important essays of the modern era into one book. It is also organized by schools of thoughts and there is an intro to each of them, so you are not thrown into the deep waters immediately. Still, it is mind numbing.

[Maisa Hussein · Rating 2 out of 5]

Politics of Piety: The Islamic Revival and the Feminist Subject

[Ron Irwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

An MA in a can!

[Lisa · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't think anyone can REALLY like Modern Literary Theory, can one?