Literature: A World History

Literature: A World History is a comprehensive four-volume set that explores the history of world literature, focusing on the interrelationships between local and national cultures over time. It covers literature from before 200 CE, 200 to 1500, 1500 to 1800, and 1800 to 2000, with contributions from an international panel of scholars. The book emphasizes the specificity of regional and local cultures while providing a balanced overview of national and global literature from all major regions. It is an invaluable reference work for undergraduate and graduate students and scholars interested in global literary history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 1776 pages
Publication date: 21 July 2022
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons Inc

Literature: A World History is a comprehensive exploration of the rich tapestry of global literature, tracing its evolution across centuries and continents. This four-volume set delves into the diverse manifestations of literature from ancient times to the present, shedding light on the intricate interplay between local and national cultures. Spanning a vast expanse of time, from the dawn of recorded history to the present day, Literature: A World History offers a comprehensive examination of the world's literary traditions.

The first volume, dedicated to literature before 200 CE, provides a foundational understanding of the literary landscape during this period. It features contributions from a diverse group of scholars, offering fresh perspectives on the art of literature and exploring the historical context in which it flourished.

The second volume, spanning from 200 to 1500, delves into the vibrant literary traditions of medieval Europe. It explores the works of influential writers such as Chaucer, Shakespeare, and Dante, as well as the social, political, and religious influences that shaped their writing.

The third volume, from 1500 to 1800, takes readers on a journey through the Renaissance, Baroque, and Enlightenment periods, highlighting the works of renowned authors such as Michelangelo, Mozart, and Voltaire. It explores the themes of humanism, individualism, and the pursuit of knowledge in these transformative eras.

The fourth and final volume, from 1800 to 2000, examines the literary landscape of the modern era. It explores the rise, the rise of new genres such as realism, naturalism, and symbolism, as well as the impact of global events such as the Industrial Revolution, colonialism, and the rise of new political movements on literature.

Throughout the four volumes, Literature: A World History emphasizes the interconnectedness of local and national cultures, showcasing the ways in which literature reflects and shapes societal values, beliefs, and practices. The text also explores the role of literary institutions, such as publishing houses, libraries, and universities, in the dissemination and preservation of literature across different regions and languages.

In addition to its scholarly value, Literature: A World History offers readers a captivating journey through the history of literature. It features insightful essays and analyses by an international panel of leading scholars from diverse backgrounds, providing a balanced overview of national and global literature from all major regions of the world. From antiquity to the present, the book highlights the specificity of regional and local cultures, while also exploring cross-cutting themes such as different writing systems, court cultures, and utopias.

With its extensive coverage, comprehensive insights, and engaging writing style, Literature: A World History is an essential resource for scholars, students, and anyone with an interest in the world of literature. It serves as a testament to the power of words to transcend boundaries and connect people across time and space, and to the enduring legacy of great writers and their works.

In conclusion, Literature: A World History is a remarkable achievement that offers a comprehensive and illuminating exploration of global literature. It provides a rich tapestry of historical, cultural, and intellectual insights, shedding light on the many varieties of literary expression across time and place. This four-volume set is a testament to the enduring power of words and the significance of literature in shaping our understanding of the world.

Weight: 3678g
Dimension: 281 x 155 x 101 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780470671900