Sophia Pawlaczek (Roundwood Park School) reviews Jonathan Culler's 'Literary Theory: A Very Short Introduction'

Culler’s very short introduction into literary theory approaches the somewhat intimidating field of literary theory with an amicable tone. This book could easily be unappealing and frightening for many readers, especially those attempting to branch out of their A level English Literature studies but unsure on where to start, however, Culler makes the unappealing attractive with his sincere approach. Culler’s introduction is an excellent fit for any student, or whomever is interested, as his broad explanation of multiple theories gives a brilliant overview of the theories including their application to literature. Not only does Culler explore such a range of theories but also offers the perfect amount of detail in order for one to recognise which theory they engage with the most, along with providing further inspiration for supplementing study. In Culler’s explanations of the different perspectives of literary theory, the traditional are explored as well as the more modern and contemporary theories which have only recently begun to flourish. In addition to the spectrum of theories explored by Culler, the meaning and consequence of these perspectives is investigated in enough depth so that the complex and maze-like effects are neatly compounded into chapters and into clear subtitles that interlace the book. Subsequently, Jonathan Culler's very short introduction is great as a first step into literary theory and I can see myself dipping back into it throughout my A levels due its direct yet sophisticated explanations that allow one to comprehend the style of theory one can debate when discussing literature. 

 

Something I agreed with in this book…

The most agreeable part of this book is the first chapters which explore the definition of literature and literary theory, as they are such complex subjects that connote such different understandings in everybody, the direct introduction ensures all have the same understanding from the outset. After these terms are questioned and investigated, Culler engages and exposes the questions and interests the reader may have once these terms have been discussed. 

Something I disagreed with…

It is difficult to disagree with the topics explored due to the nature of this book and its explanatory style. However,  one could disagree with sections of the book if one disagreed with the definition of the terms or theories provided which may compromise the exploration of the effects of these theories.

Something I learnt from this book that I didn't know before…

In this book I learnt many things but most prominently, I would say the chapter on performative language was the chapter that taught me the most. I have never come across performative language which made it incredibly insightful from the start.