The book is virtually unique in providing, in a single volume, a comprehensive analysis of The General Prologue which reflects the latest thinking. It places the work in the context of the social change in late fourteenth century England. The detailed reading of each section of the poem is supported by the author's own modernization of the text which enables the reader fully to understand Chaucer's Middle English. Also included, for purposes of comparison, are selections from contemporary writers such as Langland and Gower. The description of each pilgrim is analyzed in socio-historical...

A critical introduction to "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen is suitable for students from high school up to university level as well as for the general reader. The book places the novel in the context of Austen's other works, analyzes the narrative voices, the manners of the times, marriage, and the importance of locations. The writer shows how both Darcy and Elizabeth, inadequate alone, completely complement each other. NOTE A new cover has recently been uploaded for this book to reflect its inclusion in the author's Critical Introduction Series

This Critical Introduction explores the main themes, characters and symbols of "The Great Gatsby"; the quest for a new life, the preoccupation with one's place in society, the desire for riches and the greatest dream of all human beings. In doing so it offers an interpretation which, unlike most analyses of this American Masterpiece, places Nick as the focus of Fitzgerald's attention. It includes a series of questions that helps the reader develop a deeper understanding of the story. NOTE A new cover has recently been uploaded for this book to reflect its inclusion in the author's Critical...

This book uniquely offers everything a reader needs to appreciate the text. It gives the reader a newly edited Middle English text with side-by-side modernization and a commentary. Also included are chapters on the General Prologue, the Structure of the Wife's Prologue and Tale, the Teller and the Tale, and a comparison with three other tales of the Knight and the Loathly Lady.

Everything the reader needs in a single volume This book is virtually unique in providing the Middle English text of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight with an interlinear translation together with a commentary. It also contains helpful illustrations. Separate chapters give a full analysis of the text and its background.

The book is virtually unique in providing: the full text in Middle English, an interlinear translation, introductory chapters on the pilgrims and the narrator, guided study questions on each section of the text, a detailed analysis of the frame story and each portrait, a full bibliography and a guide to further reading. The author's aim is to meet the needs of students up to undergraduate level, of their teachers, and of the general reader who wishes to experience and enjoy one of the great comic works of world literature.

The Second Edition of this popular critical study has been significantly expanded and completely revised, making it the most thorough single-volume study of Camus' classic novel. A Critical Introduction places Camus' ideas in context. Part One shows the development of his thought in the early essays, the unpublished "A Happy Death," the plays "Caligula" and "The Misunderstanding," and the philosophical work "The Myth of Sisyphus." Building on this foundation, Part Two gives a detailed, consistent reading of "The Stranger." The aim throughout, is to explain the meaning that Camus intended his...

Would you like some help understanding the beginnings of the detective genre? The Sign of Four is one of the earliest detective mystery novels and had significant impact on the genre. This guide will allow you to understand the development of the detective genre and details the historical background to the story. It offers chapter-by-chapter commentary and guiding questions, also a concluding analysis of the text. Graphic organizers allow the reader to make concise notes on Holmes' scientific method of solving a case.

Here is everything you need to enhance your understanding of Khaled Hosseini's challenging text, A Thousand Splendid Suns. Whether you are reading the book as an individual, as a member of a reading circle or in class, this guide will help you to understand the book at a more meaningful level. The Guide includes: - An introduction; - A list of characters with detailed notes; - Analysis of themes, etc.; - A commentary and questions on each chapter to guide the reader to a deeper understanding of the novel; - Graphic organizers on plot and the perspectives of key characters; - A family tree; -...

Need some help with Greek literature? At last a reader-friendly version of this classic Greek tragedy in Modern English suited to the needs of today's reader This book is unique in providing: the play's historical, philosophical and literary background; - attention has been paid to enable understanding of the specific style of early Greek plays; and a literary term activity is included to increase understanding of literary terms.