Jane Austen and Literary Theory

Jane Austen's critics have underestimated her rhetorical cunning and her fascination with the materiality of language, but Jane Austen and Literary Theory reveals how she anticipated the ideas of twentieth-century literary thinkers. This book provides critical methods to appreciate her genius in unusual ways.

Format: Hardback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 12 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Jane Austen, a remarkable intellectual figure of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, often surprises those who engage with her critics. Despite her profound influence on English literature, she has proven remarkably resistant to theoretical interpretations. In Jane Austen and Literary Theory, author Elizabeth Weber explores the political motives behind this resistance and offers a compelling counterargument.

Through meticulous analysis, Weber delves into Austen's literary achievements, showcasing her range from captivating teenage parodies like Evelyn and The History of England to her most accomplished novels, including Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, and Emma. This book serves as a comprehensive guide, providing detailed interpretations that enlighten readers about Austen's intellectual prowess.

What sets Jane Austen and Literary Theory apart is its exploration of Austen's anticipation of the ideas of influential literary thinkers of the 20th century, such as Jacques Derrida and Paul de Man. Weber highlights how Austen's texts deconstruct binary oppositions such as gift and exchange, speech and writing, symbol and allegory, stable irony and Romantic irony. Her dazzling writings challenge readers to think critically about language and its materiality.

While Austen's novels are celebrated for their realism, critics have underestimated their rhetorical cunning and their fascination with the materiality of language. Jane Austen and Literary Theory provides the necessary critical methods to do justice to Austen's language, employing a rigorous approach akin to her own irony. This book offers a fresh perspective, enabling both her devotees and detractors to appreciate her genius in unique and compelling ways.

In conclusion, Jane Austen and Literary Theory is a groundbreaking work that sheds new light on the enigmatic author. Through meticulous analysis and thoughtful exploration, Weber provides readers with a deeper understanding of Austen's literary achievements and her profound influence on English literature. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Austen's work.

Weight: 430g
Dimension: 157 x 236 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367696443