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Shakespeare, Aphra Behn, and the Canon: Approaching Literature

Leslie Carter

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Redefining the Literary Landscape

In the realm of literature, the literary canon has long been dominated by a narrow and often exclusive perspective, privileging the works of predominantly white, male authors from a specific historical era. However, the groundbreaking book 'Shakespeare, Aphra Behn, and the Canon: Approaching Literature' challenges this established Free Download, offering a fresh and thought-provoking examination of the literary landscape.

Shakespeare, Aphra Behn and the Canon (Approaching Literature)

by Gerald Nachman

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3052 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	353 pages

Through a series of meticulously researched essays, this book explores the complex relationship between Shakespeare, considered the epitome of English literature, and Aphra Behn, one of the first and most renowned female playwrights of the Restoration era. By juxtaposing these two iconic figures, the authors illuminate the ways in which gender and race have shaped the construction and perpetuation of the literary canon.

Challenging Traditional Boundaries

The book argues that the traditional literary canon has historically excluded or marginalized the voices and perspectives of women, people of color, and other marginalized groups. By examining the works of writers like Aphra Behn, who defied societal norms and challenged prevailing literary conventions, the authors demonstrate the existence of a rich and vibrant literary tradition that has been overlooked or undervalued.

The Book Cover Of 'Shakespeare, Aphra Behn, And The Canon: Approaching Literature' Shakespeare Aphra Behn And The Canon (Approaching Literature)

The Power of Marginalized Voices

Through close readings of Behn's plays, poems, and novels, the essays in this book highlight her literary genius and her profound influence on English literature. They explore the ways in which her work challenged traditional notions of morality, gender roles, and political power. By giving voice to marginalized experiences and perspectives, Behn's writing offers a unique and valuable contribution to the literary landscape.

Critical Theory and Literary History

The book also delves into the theoretical underpinnings of canon formation and the ways in which critical theory has shaped our understanding of literature. It challenges traditional notions of "greatness" and "importance" in literature, arguing that these concepts are often subjective and influenced by social and political factors. Through a critical examination of the literary canon, the authors provide a fresh perspective on the history of literature and the ways in which it continues to evolve.

Rethinking the Literary Landscape

'Shakespeare, Aphra Behn, and the Canon: Approaching Literature' is an essential read for anyone interested in literature, literary theory, and the ongoing debates surrounding the literary canon. It offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking analysis of the ways in which race, gender, and social power have shaped the development and dissemination of literary works.

By challenging traditional boundaries and re-evaluating the significance of marginalized voices, this book invites readers to rethink the literary landscape and embrace a more inclusive and representative view of English literature. It is a seminal work that will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on literary scholarship and the way we approach literature.

Shakespeare, Aphra Behn and the Canon (Approaching Literature)

by Gerald Nachman

5 out of 5