Culture and the Literary: Matter, Metaphor, Memory

Culture and the Literary explores how cultural codes are constructed, consumed, and conveyed in fiction and non-fiction, using three theoretical frames: memory studies, thing theory, and affect studies. It offers a unique perspective on how culture is represented, reified, and re-membered in the world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 21 February 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield International

Culture and the Literary is a comprehensive exploration of the construction, consumption, and transmission of cultural codes through selected works of fiction and non-fiction. It delves into cultural studies as a discipline, revisiting its seminal figures and examining a range of literary and non-fictional texts. The book adopts a unique approach by integrating three major theoretical frames: memory studies, thing theory, and affect studies. By drawing on fictional representations, theoretical frames, and historical events, the book aims to offer a distinctive perspective on how culture is represented, reified, and re-membered in the world we live in today.

The first theoretical frame, memory studies, explores the role of memory in shaping cultural identity and understanding. It examines how cultural memories are constructed, transmitted, and transformed over time, and how they influence our perceptions of the past, present, and future. The book highlights the importance of memory in shaping cultural practices, such as storytelling, ritual, and performance, and how it can be used to challenge dominant narratives and promote social justice.

The second theoretical frame, thing theory, examines the relationship between objects and culture. It argues that objects are not just physical entities but also carry cultural meanings and values. The book explores the ways in which objects are used, consumed, and exchanged, and how they shape our sense of self and our relationships with others. It highlights the importance of material culture in shaping cultural identity and how it can be used to promote cultural diversity and sustainability.

The third theoretical frame, affect studies, examines the role of emotions in shaping cultural experiences. It argues that emotions are not just individual experiences but also social and cultural phenomena. The book explores the ways in which emotions are expressed, communicated, and regulated, and how they shape our understanding of the world and our relationships with others. It highlights the importance of emotional intelligence in promoting cultural understanding and empathy.

Throughout the book, the author draws on a range of literary and non-fictional texts to illustrate these theoretical frames. These texts include works of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and film, and they span a wide range of historical periods and cultural contexts. The author also includes personal anecdotes and reflections to provide a personal perspective on the topics discussed.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of cultural diversity and the challenges that it poses to society. The author argues that cultural diversity is a source of strength and creativity, but it can also be a source of conflict and tension. The book explores the ways in which cultural diversity can be promoted and celebrated, and how it can be used to address social and economic inequality.

Another key theme of the book is the role of technology in shaping cultural experiences. The author argues that technology has had a profound impact on the way that we communicate, consume, and interact with the world, and that it has had a significant impact on cultural practices and identities. The book explores the ways in which technology can be used to promote cultural diversity and sustainability, and how it can be used to challenge dominant narratives and promote social justice.

In conclusion, Culture and the Literary is a comprehensive and thought-provoking exploration of the construction, consumption, and transmission of cultural codes through selected works of fiction and non-fiction. It adopts a unique approach by integrating three major theoretical frames: memory studies, thing theory, and affect studies. By drawing on fictional representations, theoretical frames, and historical events, the book aims to offer a distinctive perspective on how culture is represented, reified, and re-membered in the world we live in today. Whether you are a student of cultural studies, a lover of literature, or simply interested in the ways in which culture shapes our lives, this book is essential reading.

Weight: 485g
Dimension: 235 x 161 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786615992