Paradise Lost is for many the greatest poem written in English. Composed late in the author's life, it deals with nothing less than the destiny of mankind.
This essential introductory guide:
leads the reader into the epic poem through detailed analysis of key extracts, exploring Milton's original thought and style
provides useful sections on 'Methods of Analysis' and 'Further Work' to aid independent study
offers valuable information on Milton's life, times and literary legacy
examines the development of critical opinion and discusses some recent critical views of...

A practical approach to Charlotte Bronte's best- known novels, which shows how coherent criticism can be evolved from close reading. The intention is to help students develop skills in practical criticism and encourage them to follow through their ideas. The major part of the book contains worked examples, with detailed guidance and suggestions for further work which will be useful for both teachers and students. There is additional material on Bronte's background, and on critical views of her work. The novels covered are Jane Eyre, Shirley and Vilette.

This practical approach to E.M. Forster's novels, shows how coherent criticism evolves from close reading of short extracts. The intention is to help students develop confidence in following their own ideas and assimilate skill in analysis. Edwards discusses four of Forster's most commonly-studied works: A Room with a View; Howards End; A Passage to India and The Longest Journey. The major part of the book is devoted to sample analyses, with detailed guidance and suggestions for follow-up work. There is additional material on Forster's life and work and an...

This volume guides students through Eliot's most widely studied novels: The Mill on the Floss, Silas Marner and Middlemarch. The first part of the book is based on analysis of extracts grouped by themes including relationships, society and morality. At the end of each chapter, a 'Methods' section offers ideas for independent study. The second part describes Eliot's biographical, cultural and intellectual environment, and gives readings of representative critical writing.