Continuing Theory

Literary theory has changed and evolved in recent years, with some even claiming it is dead. Peter Barry picks up on these shifts and engages with current debates to emphasise the continuing significance of theory today.

In a lucid and engaging style, this guide introduces readers to:

• The dominant debates involving the life, death and future of theory
• The way that existing theories have evolved, such as the move from 'Historicism' to a 'New Formalism'
• The relevance of new theories such as 'Presentism', 'Deep' narratology and the move toward performativity and performance in gender studies
• The 'spiritual' in literature, along with the rise of theology and the turn to god as a focus for interpretation
• The move from postcolonial to transnational or global literatures.

Offering a lively and up-to-date introduction to the ever-changing and contentious field of literary theory, this guide shows the lasting relevance and even necessity of continuing theory.