Introduction to Criticism

An accessible and thorough introduction to literary theory and contemporary critical practice, this book is an essential resource for beginning students of literary criticism. Covers traditional approaches such as formalism and structuralism, as well as more recent developments in criticism such as evolutionary theory, cognitive studies, ethical criticism, and ecocriticismOffers explanations of key works and major ideas in literary criticism and suggests key elements to look for  in a literary textAlso applies critical approaches to various examples from film studiesHelps students to build a critical framework and write analytically

“But these are only minor criticisms of what will be an extraordinarily helpful and reassuring book for many students.”  (Times Higher Education, 28 February 2013)

Michael Ryan teaches American Literat ure and Film Studies at Temple University, USA. He is the author of numerous publications, including Literary Theory: An Anthology, 2nd edition (co-edited with Julie Rivkin, Wiley-Blackwell, 2004), Literary Theory: A Practical Introduction, 2nd edition (Wiley-Blackwell, 2007), Cultural Studies: An Anthology (Wiley-Blackwell, 2008), and Cultural Studies: A Practical Introduction (Wiley-Blackwell, 2010).