Contemporary Literary and Cultural Theory: Concepts and Applications is a valuable book for undergraduate and new graduate students. The book offers a concise and clear overview of different schools of literary and cultural theory. The historical overview of a particular theoretical approach along with the key terms and theorists of that school are valuable. Additionally, the application of the theory to literary texts along with discussions of the limitations of an approach make this book an excellent addition to ones library or for a course text. The extensive reference list at the end of each chapter gives the reader direction to deepen their understanding of the theory and concepts. I recommend this for faculty and students alike.
Nalini Iyer, Professor of English, Seattle University, Seattle, WA, USA
Literary and cultural theories have changed continuously since they first burst into academic prominence in the late twentieth century. Throughout that time, these theories have reshaped countless fields, challenging students and researchers with their complexity and breadth. In this context, each successive era demands its own guidebook: one that covers the classics, yet attends to the latest developments; one that features newer voices even when framing canonical subjects. Puspa Damais new anthology, reflecting the latest developments without shirking the canon, commendably pursues all of these goals. All of the key topics are here, and the cutting edge, and the salutary unexpected. It will serve a fresh generation of students and a wide array of researchers with accessible depth.
David Chioni Moore, PhD, Associate Professor of International Studies and English, Macalester College, Saint Paul, MN, USA
