Transnational Literature: The Basics

Transnational Literature: The Basics provides an overview of this important new field of study, explaining why scholars in literary studies have become so interested in it and discussing the economic, political, social, and cultural forces that have shaped its development. The book explores a range of contemporary critical approaches to the subject, highlighting how topics like globalization, cosmopolitanism, diaspora, history, identity, migration, and decolonization are treated by scholars and writers. It includes literary works by a variety of authors and emphasizes the range and breadth of transnational writing, engaging with a variety of subjects and employing a range of literary devices.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 19 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Transnational literature is a rapidly evolving field of study that examines the ways in which literature crosses national boundaries and engages with global issues. This comprehensive guide provides an indispensable overview of this important new field and the literature it explores.

The book begins by defining transnational literature as the study of literary works that transcend national boundaries and are influenced by a range of economic, political, social, and cultural forces. It explains why scholars in literary studies have become increasingly interested in the topic, as well as the economic, political, social, and cultural forces that have shaped its development.

The book then explores a range of contemporary critical approaches to the subject, highlighting how topics like globalization, cosmopolitanism, diaspora, history, identity, migration, and decolonization are treated by both scholars in the field and the writers they study. The literary works discussed range across a wide spectrum and include fiction, poetry, and drama by writers from around the world, including Jhumpa Lahiri, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Jenny Erpenbeck, Aleksandar Hemon, Viet Thanh Nguyen, Derek Walcott, Louise Bennett, Xiaolu Guo, Sally Wen Mao, Wole Soyinka, and many more.

This survey emphasizes the range and breadth—but also the intersecting interests—of transnational writing, engaging the variety of subjects it covers and emphasizing the range of literary devices (linguistic, formal, narrative, poetic, and dramatic) it employs.

One of the key themes of transnational literature is the exploration of the complexities of cultural identity. Writers often use their works to explore the experiences of immigrants, refugees, and other marginalized groups, challenging traditional notions of national identity and promoting a more inclusive and diverse understanding of the world.

Another important theme is the impact of globalization on literature. Transnational literature reflects the increasing interconnectedness of the world, as writers draw on a range of cultural and historical sources to create their works. This can lead to the emergence of new literary forms and styles, as well as the blurring of traditional boundaries between different genres and forms of expression.

Transnational literature also raises important questions about power and politics. Writers often use their works to critique the dominant narratives of power and to challenge the structures of inequality that perpetuate global injustice. This can lead to the exploration of themes such as colonialism, imperialism, and the effects of neoliberalism on different cultures and societies

In conclusion, Transnational Literature: The Basics is an essential read for anyone approaching study of this vibrant area. It provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the field, exploring the range of contemporary critical approaches and the literary works that have shaped it. By highlighting the subjects and issues that have become central to fiction in the age of globalization, the book emphasizes the importance of transnational literature in understanding the complexities of our increasingly interconnected world.

Weight: 234g
Dimension: 127 x 197 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367252311