Literary Theory: The Basics

by Hans Bertens

Book Overview

Now in its fourth edition, Literary Theory: The Basics is an essential guide to the complicated and often confusing world of literary theory. Readers will encounter a broad range of topics from... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0415186641
• ISBN13: 9780415186643
• Release Date: May 2001
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 0.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.1" x 7.8"

Customer Reviews

Good introduction

Good introduction to literary theory. I am pleased with the depth and breadth of coverage. The "readability" of the book is fine as well; theory has the potential to be some REALLY dry stuff, but Bertens makes it palatable without watering it down any more than necessary. I gave it four stars only because I reserve five stars for items that really knock my socks off. "Basics" was good and well worth the rather low price.

Clear, concise, and insightful

This is absolutely the best introduction to modern literary theory, and I have read them all! He introduces the theories in an historical narrative, explaining how and why they arose. He discusses the major figures in theory, and includes a valuable guide to further reading. His explanations of the abstruse and arcane world of literary theory are models of clarity and conciseness. I teach an introductory class on literary theory, and this is the book I use, chosen after carefully reviewing all available options.

Best By Far

This book is the best by far in terms of lucidity and approachability. He demystifies and descarifies many difficult areas of theory. His historical approach (he begins mid-Victorian and moves from there through New Criticism, Formalism and the like) really helps show how each idea evolved from, and is indebted to, the other schools of theory. A brilliant book, which I cannot recommend highly enough!

Highly recommended...

I can't say enough good things about this book and its author, Bertens. We are using this as one of our textbooks in an advanced Contemporary Literary Theory class. The readings that we have to do by literary theorists (Derrida & ilk) are often confusing, but the Bertens book ties everything together in easy-to-understand language. I never approach the book as a "chore," rather, it is a joy. I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in a clear, concise, well-written introduction to modern literary theory. It includes such topics as Formalism, Structuralism, Post-Structuralism, Deconstruction, Post-Colonialism, and Feminist Theory, among others.