Classics and Trash

by Harriet Hawkins

The book begins by surveying the traditions and taboos governing the portrayal of heroes and villains in 'high literature' and popular genres alike. The second section compares portrayals of talented women and their 'Svengali'. The third section treats the influence of Shakespeare on popular stage-shows and films.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0802068138
• ISBN13: 9780802068132
• Release Date: August 1990
• Publisher: University of Toronto Press
• Length: 219 Pages
• Weight: 0.84 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.8" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

"Classics and Trash"

A witty and accessible argument for the enduring necessity of Shakespeare, Milton, and many of the other "greats"--not just because English teachers SAY they are great, but because popular culture from "Star Trek" to "Jurassic Park" keeps them alive andwell. If you set yourself free from the tyranny of chronology, Hawkins argues famously, "King Kong" can influence your reading of "King Lear" just as much as the other way around.Hawkins was cultural studies before cultural studies was cool, and her work is ripe for a reassessment.