Eagleton, Terry

While Eagleton is obviously well read, with an unquestionable knowledge of literary theory, this book may not achieve its ambitions. Unsurprisingly, students will not actually learn to read literature from this volume but over time might further develop their interest in great books by careful perusal of the cited works.

Eagleton has a remarkable ability to explain difficult ideas clearly. This book is highly recommended for serious students at the intersection of literary theory and philosophy.