Allegory Studies: Contemporary Perspectives

Allegory Studies: Contemporary Perspectives is a collection of compelling current work in allegory studies, covering disciplinary, cultural, and period-based divides, from its origins to its future, and its cultural and artistic manifestations to its cognitive roots. It is a dynamic cultural force that has left a deep imprint on our history, and the book seeks to provide a cross-disciplinary examination of it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 278 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Allegory Studies: Contemporary Perspectives is a groundbreaking collection of cutting-edge research in the field of allegory, brought together by an international team of scholars from diverse disciplines and areas of expertise in the humanities and cognitive sciences. Spanning disciplinary boundaries, cultural contexts, and historical periods, this volume explores the multifaceted nature of allegory, from its enigmatic origins to its uncertain future, and from its diverse cultural and artistic expressions to its profound cognitive foundations.

Allegory, as this volume demonstrates, is not merely a literary and artistic mode but also a religious and secular interpretive practice. It encompasses a rich tapestry of phenomena that have profoundly shaped our history, and whose full impact we are only beginning to understand. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of allegory, this book aims to provide a dedicated platform for scholars to delve into its complexities and unravel its profound implications.

The volume begins by tracing the historical development of allegory, from its early roots in myth and folklore to its more sophisticated manifestations in literature and art. It explores the various ways in which allegory has been employed to convey complex ideas, explore moral dilemmas, and shed light on the human condition. The authors examine the role of allegory in different cultural contexts, including religious traditions, political discourse, and popular culture, and analyze how it has evolved over time to adapt to changing societal needs and beliefs.

In addition to its historical and cultural dimensions, Allegory Studies: Contemporary Perspectives also delves into the cognitive mechanisms underlying allegory. The authors explore how allegory taps into our cognitive processes, such as metaphorical thinking, pattern recognition, and narrative comprehension, and how it can enhance our understanding of complex phenomena. They discuss the neural and psychological foundations of allegory and how it interacts with other cognitive systems, such as language and memory.

The volume also includes a range of case studies that illustrate the practical applications of allegory in various fields, such as education, psychotherapy, and cultural analysis. The authors demonstrate how allegory can be used to promote critical thinking, enhance empathy, and communicate complex ideas in a more accessible and engaging manner. They explore how allegory can be used to address social and political issues, such as inequality, discrimination, and environmental degradation, and how it can inspire social change and transformation.

Allegory Studies: Contemporary Perspectives is a seminal work that will appeal to scholars, researchers, and students interested in literature, art, religion, philosophy, cognitive science, and cultural studies. It offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective on allegory, providing a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand its rich tapestry and its profound implications for our understanding of the world.

In conclusion, Allegory Studies: Contemporary Perspectives is a groundbreaking collection of research that explores the multifaceted nature of allegory, from its historical roots to its cognitive foundations, and from its cultural manifestations to its practical applications. By bringing together an international team of scholars from diverse disciplines, this volume provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary examination of allegory, shedding light on its profound impact on our history and our understanding of the human condition. As we continue to navigate the complexities of our contemporary world, allegory remains a powerful tool for exploring the deeper meanings and implications of our experiences and for fostering social change and transformation.

Weight: 540g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032024387