Philosophy and Fiction: An Introduction to Thinking Through Literature

Philosophy and fiction engage in a paradoxical relationship, where philosophy seeks to clarify the truth and fiction seeks reality through shadows. This book uses fiction to help readers process philosophical themes and the philosophical reflection helps clarify the fiction. It examines classic works of literary fiction and popular novels to reveal the depth and complexity of the human experience.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 08 November 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

Fiction, a captivating realm of imagination, weaves a tapestry of lies in pursuit of the truth. It casts its shadows upon the world, seeking to unveil the essence of reality. In contrast, philosophy emerges as a beacon of enlightenment, dedicated to dispelling false illusions and attaining a profound understanding of the inherent nature of things. While the relationship between philosophy and fiction may seem paradoxical, they interweave to shape a comprehensive portrayal of human experience.

This remarkable book employs fiction as a powerful tool to facilitate the exploration of philosophical themes. Simultaneously, the philosophical reflection that ensues deepens our comprehension of the fiction, enriching its narrative. The study spans a century of modern fiction, traversing from Washington Irving's The Devil and Tom Walker (1824) to James M. Cain's Double Indemnity (1936). Within this literary journey, several classic works of literary fiction are examined, alongside a few largely forgotten stories and numerous popular novels. By reading fiction through the lens of philosophy, readers are granted a heightened perception of the intricate depth and richness that permeate the narrative. This transformative experience rekindles the pursuit of wisdom, nestled just beneath the surface of the words on the page.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476688473