Literature, Analytically Speaking: Explorations in the Theory of Interpretation, Analytic Aesthetics, and Evolution

by Peter Swirski

Overview

In a new approach to interdisciplinary literary theory, Literature, Analytically Speaking integrates literary studies with analytic aesthetics, girded by neo-Darwinian evolution. Scrutinizing narrative fiction through a lens provided by analytic philosophy, revered literary theorist Peter Swirski puts new life into literary theory while fashioning a set of practical guidelines for critics in the interpretive trenches.

Dismissing critical inquirers who deny intention its key role in the study of literary reception, Swirski extends the defense of intentionality to art and to human behavior in general. In the process, Swirski takes stock of the recent work in evolutionary theory, arguing that the analysis of narrative truth may be grounded in the neo-Darwinian paradigm which forms the empirical backbone behind his analytic approach. Literature, Analytically Speaking provides a series of precepts designed to capture the ways in which we do interpret (and ought to interpret) works of literature. Reflecting a resounding shift from the poststructuralist paradigm, Swirski's lively and colorful presentation, backed up by a dazzling variety of examples and case studies, reconceptualizes the aesthetics of literature and literary studies.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780292792777
Publisher:	University of Texas Press
Publication date:	01/01/2011
Series:	Cognitive Approaches to Literature and Culture Series
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	2 MB

About the Author

Peter Swirski is Professor of American literature and culture at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, Honorary Professor of American Studies at Jinan University, China, and member of the Executive Council of the International American Studies Association (IASA).

Table of Contents

• Chapter 1: Analytic Aesthetics
• Chapter 2: Artwork
• Chapter 3: Work and Text
• Chapter 4: Fiction and Nonfiction
• Chapter 5: The Nature of Fiction
• Chapter 6: Fictional Truth
• Chapter 7: Intention and Interpretation
• Chapter 8: Aesthetics and Evolution
• Notes
• Works Cited
• Index