Literary Studies: A Practical Guide provides a comprehensive foundation for the study of English, American, and world literatures, giving students the critical skills they need to best develop and apply their knowledge. Designed for use in a range of literature courses, it begins by outlining the history of literary movements, enabling students to contextualize a given work within its cultural and historical moment. Specific focus is then given to the use of literary theory and the analysis of:
- Poetry
- Prose fiction and novels
- Plays
- Films.
A detailed unit provides clear and concise introductions to literary criticism and theory, encouraging students to nurture their unique insights into a range of texts with these critical tools. Finally, students are guided through the process of generating ideas for essays, considering the role of secondary criticism in their writing, and formulating literary arguments. This practical volume is an invaluable resource for students, providing them with the tools to succeed in any English course.
Introduction
Unit 1: A Practical Guide to Linguistic and Literary History
1.1 A Brief Linguistic History of English and England
1.2. A Brief History of English Literature
1.3. A Brief History of American Literature
1.4. A Brief History of World Literature
Unit 2: A Practical Guide to Major Literary Modes and Cinematic Adaptations
2.1. Poetry
2.2. Prose Fiction
2.3. Plays
2.4. Cinematic Adaptations of Literature
Unit 3: A Practical Guide to Literary Criticism and Literary Theory
3.1. A Brief Historical Overview of Literary Criticism
3.2. Literary Theories and Their Applications
Unit 4: A Practical Guide to Writing a Research Essay
4.1. The Research Essay
4.2. Revising the Research Essay
Works Cited
Index
Biography
Tison Pugh is Professor in the Department of English at the University of Central Florida, USA.
Margaret E. Johnson is Professor of English at Idaho State University, USA.
