This book helps students analyze and write about literature through the introduction of contemporary critical theories.  Step-by-step applications of a particular theory give clear, practical examples of what other texts only cover in the abstract.  A wealth of writing strategies, examples, and practice materials enable students to understand the assumptions underlying these theories.

 

WHAT YOU’LL FIND IN THIS EDITION

• A stronger focus on evaluating and using Internet sources, as well as electronic databases, with an emphasis on ethics and strategies for avoiding plagiarism.
• Innovatively addresses critical theories by discussing the assumptions of an approach, showing how those assumptions drive a reading and providing practice for students.
• New coverage of cultural criticism and post-colonial criticism. 
• Expanded examples and practice tests.

Deeply rooted in the views, responses, and history of contemporary critical theories, Texts and Contexts, Fourth Editionprovides students with the knowledge and tools to write about literature effectively. The author presents a user-friendly introduction to contemporary critical theoriesùfrom new criticism to cultural studies-as part of the practice of writing about literature. Texts and Contexts innovatively incorporates a step-by-step approach in each chapter guiding readers through the application of a particular theory and giving them clear examples of how to apply what other texts cover in abstract. In addition, the text provides a wealth of writing strategies, examples, and practice tests that assist in explaining the assumptions underlying the various critical theories. Readers engage in a unique learning experience of understanding about how the process of employing these methods enriches their engagements with literature. For those interested in learning more about critical theory in literature.