Literary Criticism in the 21st Century: Theory Renaissance

University of Oklahoma English professor Leitch (American Literary Criticism Since the 1930s, 2nd edition) offers a spirited defense of literary theory. Defying those who feel criticism is in a “post-theory” age, following the intense, contentious theory and culture wars of the 1980s and 1990s, Leitch claims that theory is a way to engage the postmodern globalized world. The disparate chapters—two, for example, are extended interview/talks with Leitch himself—present a comprehensive picture of the state of criticism in the new century. In addition to the interviews, chapters cover the continuing fascination with the French schools of theory (especially the work of Jacques Derrida) and game-changing new scholarship. Leitch takes on the anti-theory critics, addressing their arguments and learning from them, even expressing some of his own reservations about contemporary criticism. A section in which he gives advice to graduate students seeking to specialize in theory does not pull any punches; he takes a pointed, forthright view of the “corporate university.” While candidly assessing academia today, he maintains that theory has a bright future. While is was written primarily for specialists, it is nevertheless a skillful account of theory’s influence, history, and continued relevance. (Oct.)