Using Critical Theory: How to Read and Write About Literature

Authors: Lois Tyson
Publisher: Routledge
Edition: 2
Publish Year: 2011
ISBN: 9780415616171

Explaining both why theory is important and how to use it, Lois Tyson introduces beginning students of literature to this often daunting area in a friendly and approachable style. The new edition of this textbook is clearly structured with chapters based on major theories that students are expected to cover in their studies.

Key features include:

coverage of major theories including psychoanalysis, Marxism, feminism, lesbian/gay/queer theories, postcolonial theory, African American theory, and a new chapter on New Criticism (formalism)
practical demonstrations of how to use these theories on short literary works selected from canonical authors including William Faulkner and Alice Walker
a new chapter on reader-response theory that shows students how to use their personal responses to literature while avoiding typical pitfalls