The Work of Reading: Literary Criticism in the 21st Century

The Work of Reading: Literary Criticism in the 21st Century is a critical examination of literary studies developments from the early 2000s onwards, advocating a renewed focus on questions of form through aesthetic study and close reading.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 303 pages
Publication date: 19 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The Work of Reading: Literary Criticism in the 21st Century is a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the significant advancements and transformations that have taken place in the field of literary studies since the early 2000s. It delves into the intricate web of systematic issues plaguing the humanities, providing a framework for analyzing the origins and evolution of contemporary methods such as New Historicism, empiricism, New Formalism, postcritique, and others. This volume goes beyond mere analysis and offers alternative perspectives on the current state of literary studies. In a time when many aspects of current methods appear to be seeking inspiration and solutions from other disciplines to address internal crises, The Work of Reading advocates for a renewed emphasis on the exploration of form through the practices of aesthetic study, close reading, and other direct engagement with literary texts.

The book's central argument is that the study of literature must move beyond the confines of traditional academic disciplines and embrace a more interdisciplinary approach. It argues that the current methods in literary studies, while valuable in their own right, have often been limited by their adherence to narrow theoretical frameworks and a lack of engagement with other fields such as philosophy, psychology, and cultural studies. By integrating these diverse perspectives, The Work of Reading seeks to provide a more holistic understanding of literature and its role in shaping our understanding of the world.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of aesthetic study in understanding literature. The author argues that traditional academic approaches to literature often overlook the aesthetic dimension, focusing solely on textual analysis and theoretical frameworks. However, the author contends that aesthetics is a vital component of literature, as it provides a means of understanding the emotional and sensory experiences of the reader. Through the practice of close reading, the author suggests that readers can gain a deeper understanding of the literary text and its underlying themes and messages.

Another important theme of the book is the role of the reader in the interpretation of literature. The author argues that readers are not passive recipients of information but active participants in the construction of meaning. Through the practice of critical reading, readers can develop their own interpretations of the text and engage with it on a personal level. The author emphasizes the importance of developing a critical vocabulary and analytical skills to facilitate this process.

The Work of Reading also explores the relationship between literature and power. The author argues that literature has the power to challenge dominant ideologies and power structures and to promote social change. Through the analysis of literary texts, the author suggests that readers can gain a deeper understanding of the social and political contexts in which they live and can become more engaged in the struggle for social justice.

In conclusion, The Work of Reading: Literary Criticism in the 21st Century is a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the developments in literary studies since the early 2000s. It offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the study of literature, emphasizing the importance of aesthetic study, close reading, and the reader's role in the interpretation of literature. By integrating diverse perspectives and promoting a renewed focus on questions of form, the book provides a valuable contribution to the field of literary criticism and offers a roadmap for future research and exploration.

Weight: 428g
Dimension: 146 x 210 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030711412
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021