Hope: A Literary History

Hope is seen as a positive thing, but it was criticized in classical antiquity as a distraction from the present moment and a presumption against the gods. Adam Potkay examines the cases for and against hope in literature from antiquity to the present, bringing fresh insights to a subject of perennial interest.

Format: Hardback
Length: 434 pages
Publication date: 27 January 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Hope, a positive and uplifting concept, has faced criticism throughout classical antiquity. It was seen as a distraction from the present moment, an opportunity for irrational and self-destructive thinking, and a presumption against the gods. However, the question remains: To what extent do arguments against hope still hold relevance in today's world?

If hope resonates with us as a positive force, it is rooted in a progressive political tradition that emerged during the French Revolution, drawing inspiration from various aspects of Romantic literature, as well as the influence of the Abrahamic faiths. Adam Potkay, in his comprehensive examination, delves into both the cases for and against hope found in literature spanning from antiquity to the present. Through his imaginative exploration of multiple fields, including poetry, drama, novels, philosophy, theology, and political theory, Potkay offers fresh and captivating insights into a subject that has always intrigued and fascinated readers. This novel approach to a long-running literary debate presents a bold and illuminating perspective, making it a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of human nature and the enduring power of hope.

Weight: 716g
Dimension: 145 x 224 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781316513705
Edition number: New ed