Critical Discourse in Gujarati

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the history of critical thought in Gujrati literature in South Asia, covering a century or more. It offers English translations of key writings by influential figures, exploring literary criticism, theory, aesthetics, and performative traditions. It also presents a new periodization of Gujarati literature and its critical discourse, derived from a fresh perspective on Gujarati and Indian literary culture. Essential for scholars and researchers in Gujarati language and literature, literary criticism, theory, comparative literature, Indian literature, cultural studies, art and aesthetics, performance studies, history, sociology, regional studies, and South Asian studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 19 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive and authoritative volume provides a comprehensive overview of the history of critical thought in Gujarati literature in South Asia. It is a valuable resource for scholars and researchers interested in Gujarati language and literature, literary criticism, literary theory, comparative literature, Indian literature, cultural studies, art and aesthetics, performance studies, history, and more.

The book is part of the Critical Discourses in South Asia series, which focuses on schools, movements, and discursive practices in major South Asian languages. It offers insightful perspectives on the development of Gujarati literature and its critical tradition over a century or several centuries.

The book presents a unique historiography of Gujarati literature and its critical discourse. It brings together English translations of significant writings by influential figures who have contributed to literary criticism, theory, aesthetic and performative traditions, and reinterpretations of primary concepts and categories in Gujarati. This collection facilitates an exploration of Gujarati critical discourse from the historical to neglected pre-colonial centuries, presenting key texts in literary and cultural studies. Some of these seminal essays are being made available in English for the first time.

These essays delve into complex interconnections, illuminating the dynamics of critical discursive situations in Gujarati literature. They offer a critical approach to constructing a mobile post of observation that aligns with these dynamics. By departing from the prevalent historiographical practice in Indian writings of disregarding pre-colonial literary critical discourse, the book offers a radical departure from established narratives.

Furthermore, the book proposes a new and indigenous periodization of Gujarati literature and its critical discourse, derived from a fresh perception of Gujarati and Indian literary culture. This periodization challenges traditional frameworks and provides a fresh perspective on the evolution of Gujarati critical thought.

The volume is organized into five sections, each dedicated to a specific aspect of Gujarati critical discourse. The first section explores the historical background and development of Gujarati literature, including its oral traditions and the influence of Sanskrit and Persian literature. The second section examines the emergence of literary criticism in Gujarati, with a focus on the works of influential critics such as Narsinh Mehta and Jhaverchand Mehta. The third section explores the theoretical foundations of Gujarati literature, including the influence of Western philosophy and the development of modernist and postmodernist movements. The fourth section examines the aesthetics and performative traditions of Gujarati literature, including the role of music, dance, and drama in shaping literary expression. The fifth section explores the contemporary landscape of Gujarati critical discourse, including the impact of globalization, digital technology, and social media on literary production and reception.

Each section is accompanied by an introduction that provides context and highlights the significance of the topics discussed. The essays within the sections are written by experts in the field, offering in-depth analysis and critical insights into Gujarati critical discourse. The book also includes a comprehensive bibliography that provides a comprehensive list of primary and secondary sources related to Gujarati literature and critical thought.

In conclusion, this volume is a valuable resource for scholars and researchers seeking to understand the history, development, and contemporary trends of Gujarati critical discourse. It offers a comprehensive and authoritative overview of the field, providing insights into the complex interconnections between literature, culture, and society in South Asia. The book will be of interest to students, scholars, and anyone with an interest in Gujarati language and literature, literary criticism, literary theory, comparative literature, Indian literature, cultural studies, art and aesthetics, performance studies, history, and more.

Weight: 620g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138504790