Erich Auerbach and the Secular World: Literary Criticism, Historiography, Post-Colonial Theory and Beyond

Auerbach was a 20th-century literary critic whose work relates to literary criticism, historiography, and postcolonial theory. This book explores his understanding of interpretation, the influences on his thinking, and specific themes in his work, including the historical grounding of the 'figural imagination,' the relation between the secular and the sacred, tragic realism, and 'inner history.' The final chapters discuss his concerns about the development of an educated readership and the emergence of 'a world literature.'

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 162 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Auerbach, a towering figure in 20th-century literary criticism, left an indelible mark on the realms of literary criticism, historiography, and postcolonial theory. His seminal work delves into the intricate nuances of interpretation, shedding light on his role as an interpreter. In the opening chapter, he elucidates his understanding of the interpretive task and the profound impact it had on his intellectual journey. The subsequent chapter traces the significant phases of his life, showcasing the profound influence of the writers and thinkers who shaped his thinking and practice. The central chapters of the book delve into profound themes that resonated throughout Auerbach's work. These include the historical roots of the 'figural imagination,' the intricate interplay between the secular and the sacred, the emergence of tragic realism, and the notion of 'inner history' as a defining hallmark of early 20th-century modernism. The final two chapters broaden the scope of inquiry, exploring broader issues related to the development of Auerbach's understanding of an educated readership within Europe and his profound concerns about the emergence of what he termed 'a world literature.'

Auerbach, a towering figure in 20th-century literary criticism, left an indelible mark on the realms of literary criticism, historiography, and postcolonial theory. His seminal work delves into the intricate nuances of interpretation, shedding light on his role as an interpreter. In the opening chapter, he elucidates his understanding of the interpretive task and the profound impact it had on his intellectual journey. The subsequent chapter traces the significant phases of his life, showcasing the profound influence of the writers and thinkers who shaped his thinking and practice. The central chapters of the book delve into profound themes that resonated throughout Auerbach's work. These include the historical roots of the 'figural imagination,' the intricate interplay between the secular and the sacred, the emergence of tragic realism, and the notion of 'inner history' as a defining hallmark of early 20th-century modernism. The final two chapters broaden the scope of inquiry, exploring broader issues related to the development of Auerbach's understanding of an educated readership within Europe and his profound concerns about the emergence of what he termed 'a world literature.'

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032258119