The Bloomsbury Handbook to Sylvia Plath

The Bloomsbury Handbook to Sylvia Plath is a comprehensive collection of contemporary scholarship on Plath's work, exploring her literary contexts, previously unpublished letters, and broadcasting work. It offers new insights into her life and work, making it an indispensable volume for scholars.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 28 December 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The Bloomsbury Handbook to Sylvia Plath is a comprehensive and authoritative resource that offers a wealth of contemporary scholarship on the renowned American poet Sylvia Plath. Written by over 25 leading and emerging international scholars, this handbook provides a comprehensive exploration of Plath's life, work, and literary contexts.

The book delves into various aspects of Plath's life, including her upbringing, education, and personal struggles. It explores her literary influences, ranging from classical authors such as Homer and Virgil to contemporary poets like W.B. Yeats, Edith Sitwell, Ruth Sillitoe, Carol Ann Duffy, and Ted Hughes. The handbook also sheds new light on Plath's previously unpublished letters and writings, providing valuable insights into her creative process and personal thoughts.

One of the key strengths of The Bloomsbury Handbook to Sylvia Plath is its commitment to interdisciplinary scholarship. The chapters are written from a range of perspectives, including feminist and gender studies, critical race studies, medical humanities, and disability studies. This approach allows for a multi-faceted understanding of Plath's work and its relevance to contemporary society.

The handbook explores Plath's literary contexts, from her early poems and short stories to her later works such as The Bell Jar and Ariel. It examines how Plath's personal experiences and struggles influenced her writing and how she used her art to confront societal norms and challenge traditional gender roles. The chapters also provide new insights into Plath's broadcasting work for the BBC, highlighting her talent as a radio presenter and her contributions to public discourse on literature and culture.

In conclusion, The Bloomsbury Handbook to Sylvia Plath is an indispensable volume for scholars of Sylvia Plath. With its comprehensive coverage of Plath's life, work, and literary contexts, this handbook offers new perspectives and insights into the poet's life and legacy. It is a valuable resource for students, researchers, and anyone interested in exploring the rich and complex world of Sylvia Plath.

Weight: 682g
Dimension: 170 x 244 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350419667