Literary theory : a very short introduction

Literary Theory is a controversial subject. Said to have transformed the study of culture and society in the past two decades, it is accused of undermining respect for tradition and truth, encouraging suspicion about the political and psychological implications of cultural products rather than admiration for great literature. In this Very Short Introduction, Jonathan Culler explains 'theory', not by describing warring 'schools' but by sketching key 'moves' that theory have encouraged and speaking directly about the implications of theory for thinking about literature, human identity, and the power of language. This lucid introduction will be useful for anyone who has wondered what all the fuss is about or who wants to think about literature today.
Contents
1. What is Theory?