The Idea of the Book and the Creation of Literature

The Idea of the Book and the Creation of Literature explores the intersection of literary history and the history of the book, considering how texts become works and how authors are imagined.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 29 November 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The Idea of the Book and the Creation of Literature delves into the fascinating intersection of literary history and the history of the book. For countless centuries, books have served as the tangible embodiment of knowledge and culture, playing a vital role in the dissemination of information across various domains. While books are commonly associated with written content, it's important to note that texts can exist in various forms beyond the printed page. The oldest poems, for instance, were originally intended for oral recitation and were only recorded centuries later. Similarly, much of the renowned poetry of the English Renaissance was composed in manuscript form, circulating within a small social circle. Plays, too, began as scripts intended for theatrical performances. What transpires when a play transitions from the stage to the printed page, or when a collection of poems circulated among friends transforms into a volume of sonnets? How do essays, plays, poems, stories, and other literary works evolve into "works"? Moreover, how is an author imagined in this process? In this groundbreaking addition to the Oxford Textual Perspectives series, Stephen Orgel explores these profound questions and delves into the idea of the book as an integral component in its creation. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Orgel offers a comprehensive examination of the book's historical development, its cultural significance, and its impact on the literary world. He challenges traditional notions of the book as a mere container for written work and instead presents it as a dynamic force that shapes and influences the very process of writing. The book explores various aspects of the book's evolution, from its early origins in ancient civilizations to its modern-day manifestations. It examines the role of the book in shaping literary genres, such as the novel, the play, and the poem, and explores how authors have responded to the constraints and opportunities presented by the book's physical form. Orgel also delves into the social and cultural implications of the book, examining how it has facilitated the spread of knowledge, influenced public opinion, and shaped cultural identities. He explores the impact of the book on individual readers and on society. The book is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the history, literature, and culture of the book. It provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the field, offering a wealth of insights and perspectives that will deepen one's understanding of the book's significance and its enduring impact on the world.
The Idea of the Book and the Creation of Literature explores the intricate interplay between literary history and the history of the book, shedding light on the profound examination of the relationship between these two realms. For countless millennia, books have held the esteemed position of being the tangible embodiments of knowledge and culture, serving as indispensable vessels for the dissemination of information across diverse domains. While books are commonly associated with written content, it is essential to acknowledge that texts can manifest in various forms beyond the printed page. The oldest poems, for instance, were originally intended for oral recitation and were only recorded centuries later. Similarly, much of the renowned poetry of the English Renaissance was composed in manuscript form, circulating within a small social circle. Plays, too, began as scripts intended for theatrical performances. What transpires when a play transitions from the stage to the printed page, or when a collection of poems circulated among friends transforms into a volume of sonnets? How do essays, plays, poems, stories, and other literary works evolve into "works"? Moreover, how is an author imagined in this process? In this groundbreaking addition to the Oxford Textual Perspectives series, Stephen Orgel delves into these profound questions and offers a comprehensive exploration of the idea of the book as an integral component in its creation. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Orgel presents a comprehensive examination of the book's historical development, its cultural significance, and its profound impact on the literary world. He challenges traditional notions of the book as a mere container for written work and instead presents it as a dynamic force that shapes and influences the very process of writing. The book explores various aspects of the book's evolution, from its early origins in ancient civilizations to its modern-day manifestations. It examines the role. The book delves into the role. The book explores various aspects of the book's evolution, from its early origins in ancient civilizations to its modern-day manifestations. It examines the role. The book delves into the role of the book in shaping literary genres, such as the novel, the play, and the poem, and explores how authors have responded to the constraints and opportunities presented by the book's physical form. Orgel also delves into the social and cultural implications of the book, examining how it has facilitated the spread of knowledge, influenced public opinion, and shaped cultural identities. He explores the impact of the book on individual readers. The book is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the history, literature, and culture of the book. It provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the field, offering a wealth of insights and perspectives that will deepen one's understanding of the book's significance.

Weight: 388g
Dimension: 143 x 209 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192871534