Alphabetically arranged essays define and discuss terms, theories, and points of view used in literary criticism

This text defines and discusses terms, critical theories, and points of view that are commonly used to classify, analyse, interpret, and write the history of works of literature.

"In this remarkable new book, M. H. Abrams definitively studies the Romantic Age (1789-1835)--the age in which Shelley claimed that "the literature of England has arisen as it were from a new birth.

"One of the most respected literary scholars alive, . . . Abrams stands for understanding and conciliation, calling for a kind of humanism that can embrace the good in all literary theories." --Washington Post

Collects literature written by the most well-known English authors.

This highly acclaimed study analyzes the various trends in English criticism during the first four decades of this century. with this book, M.H. Abrams has given us a remarkable study, admirably conceived and executed, a book of quite ...

“[Abrams] can sum up whole epochs and genres with a telling phrase. . . .Admirably cogent and erudite throughout.” —Kirkus Reviews