Understanding Barthes, Understanding Modernism

Understanding Modernism is a general assessment of Roland Barthes' modern literary and philosophical contributions, covering his development from 1953 to 1980 and the posthumously published material and legacies of his work. The third part is devoted to critical vocabulary of Barthes.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Understanding Modernism: An Exploration of Roland Barthes' Literary and Philosophical Contributions

Understanding Modernism: An Exploration of Roland Barthes' Literary and Philosophical Contributions is a comprehensive assessment of the modern literary and philosophical contributions of Roland Barthes. The book is divided into three parts, each offering a distinct perspective on Barthes' work.

Part 1: Pre-Death Publications

The first part of the volume focuses on the work published prior to Barthes' death in 1980, encompassing the major periods of his development. It begins with his early writings, such as "Writing Degree Zero" (1953), which marked the beginning of his critical approach to literature. This section also includes his influential essays, such as "The Death of the Author" (1967), which challenged the traditional notion of authorship and the authority of the text.

Part 2: Posthumous Material and Legacies

The second part of the book delves into the posthumously published material and the legacies of Barthes' work after his death in 1980. It explores the impact of his ideas on contemporary literature, philosophy, and cultural studies. This section also examines the influence of his work on notions of the neutral, gay writing, and critiques of everyday life.

Part 3: Critical Vocabulary

The third part of the book is devoted to some of the critical vocabulary of Barthes in both the work he published during his lifetime and that which was published posthumously. It explores the themes and concepts that shaped his analytical approach to literature, such as semiotics, myth, and the pleasure principle. This section also provides insights into his theoretical frameworks and the methods he employed to analyze texts.

In conclusion, Understanding Modernism: An Exploration of Roland Barthes' Literary and Philosophical Contributions is a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in modern literature, philosophy, and cultural studies. It offers a comprehensive and insightful analysis of Barthes' work, providing a deeper understanding of his contributions to the field. Through its three parts, the book explores the breadth and depth of Barthes' intellectual legacy, making it an essential read for anyone seeking to explore the complexities of modernism.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501393518