Not a general dictionary of literary terms, the Dictionary of Concepts in Literary Criticism and Theory treats seventy fundamental and overarching concepts from allegory and allusion to tragedy and unity. By concepts is meant broad terms that designate modes of thought about, approaches to, or major classifications of literature that are of central importance to the history or present pursuit of literary criticism and commentary. Particular attention has been given to distinguishing the different senses in which a term has been used or is presently used, to noting major questions that have been debated in relation to the concept, and to documenting points of view and specific aspects with full references. Additional sources of information are appended in each case.

Useful especially to students and faculty in literature and to literary critics, the concepts are lucidly presented in essays that can enlighten any reader interested in more than superficial definitions.

This dictionary is exceptional for its extremely useful bibliographical information and relatively few entries, which are treated much more in depth than in similar dictionaries... Highly recommended as an indispensable reference tool for both students and researchers. Library Journal

About the Author

WENDELL V. HARRIS is Professor of English at Pennsylvania State University. His academic specialities in literary theory and Victorian literature are reflected in his previous books, including British Short Fiction of the Nineteenth Century, The Omnipresent Debate, and Interpretive Acts.

Book Information
ISBN 9780313259326
Author Wendell Harris
Format Hardback
Page Count 464
Imprint Greenwood Press
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing Plc