Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction: what is literature? -- The rise of English -- Phenomenology, hermeneutics, reception theory -- Structuralism and semiotics -- Post-structuralism -- Psychoanalysis -- Conclusion: political criticism.

This classic work covers all of the major movements in literary studies in this century. Noted for its clear, engaging style and unpretentious treatment, Literary Theory has become the introduction of choice for anyone interested in learning about the world of contemporary literary thought.