Literature and Power: A Critical Investigation of Literary Legitimacy

This book explores the relationship between literature and society, using Michel Foucault and Pierre Bourdieu's theoretical frameworks to investigate issues such as the end of art and the laws of literature's evolution. It combines these frameworks with other theoretical approaches, such as Marxist ideology and economics and communication studies, to provide a comprehensive analysis of literature's social significance.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into profound and thought-provoking themes, such as the demise of art and the underlying laws governing the evolution of literature, by drawing upon the theoretical frameworks of Michel Foucault and Pierre Bourdieu. It seamlessly integrates these two frameworks into a cohesive argument, presenting a critical examination of these critical issues. The book begins by exploring Hegel's assertion that "the end of art" signals a significant shift in artistic expression. From there, it proceeds to address the fundamental question of literature's legitimacy within a sociological context. By incorporating Bourdieu's sociological concepts, including power, capital, habitus, field, and more, into the study of literature and art, the book offers a fresh perspective on these artistic forms. Additionally, it engages with other theoretical inquiries, such as the Marxist exploration of ideology and aspects of economics and communication studies.

This book is an invaluable resource for students and scholars engaged in the sociology of literature, cultural studies, and those with a particular interest in Chinese literature, literary and art theory. Its comprehensive analysis and insightful perspectives make it a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of these complex and interconnected fields.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032489612