Literary Theory in Its Sources: A Comprehensive Guide to the History and Development of Literary Theory

Introduction

In this groundbreaking and comprehensive work, Luiz Costa Lima presents a magisterial overview of the history and development of literary theory. Drawing on a vast array of sources, Lima traces the evolution of literary theory from its earliest origins in ancient Greece and Rome to its contemporary manifestations in the 21st century.

The Ancient World

Lima begins his exploration of literary theory with an examination of the classical Greek and Roman periods. He discusses the major figures of this era, including Plato, Aristotle, and Horace, and their influential ideas about literature and its role in society. Lima also explores the development of literary criticism and the emergence of the first literary genres.

The Middle Ages and Renaissance

The book then moves on to the Middle Ages and Renaissance, a period of great intellectual and cultural ferment. Lima examines the rise of Christianity and its impact on literary theory, as well as the emergence of new literary forms such as the romance and the epic. He also discusses the important contributions of medieval and Renaissance scholars such as Dante, Petrarch, and Erasmus.

The Enlightenment and Romanticism

The Enlightenment and Romanticism were two of the most influential periods in the history of literary theory. Lima explores the major ideas of these periods, including the rise of rationalism, empiricism, and individualism. He also discusses the development of new literary genres such as the novel and the short story, as well as the emergence of new critical approaches such as formalism and structuralism.

The Modern and Contemporary Periods

The final part of the book examines the development of literary theory in the modern and contemporary periods. Lima discusses the major trends and movements of this era, including post-structuralism, deconstruction, and cultural studies. He also explores the impact of new technologies on literary theory and the emergence of new critical approaches such as ecocriticism and gender studies.

Conclusion

In Literary Theory in Its Sources, Luiz Costa Lima provides a comprehensive and authoritative overview of the history and development of literary theory. This essential work is a must-read for anyone interested in literature, literary theory, or the history of ideas.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are interested in literature, literary theory, or the history of ideas, then Literary Theory in Its Sources is a must-read. This comprehensive and authoritative work provides a wealth of information on the development of literary theory from its earliest origins to its contemporary manifestations. Lima's engaging and accessible writing style makes this book a pleasure to read, and his insights into the major figures and ideas of literary theory are invaluable.

Whether you are a student, a scholar, or simply a lover of literature, Literary Theory in Its Sources is a book that you will return to time and time again.