Studying Oscar Wilde
Subtitle: History, Criticism, and Myth (1880-1920 British Authors)
Publisher: E & L Press
Published: November 2006
Language: eng
Format: Paperback
Number of pages: 232
ISBN-13: 9780944318225
Subjects: English, Irish, Scottish, Welsh; Study Guides; Study Aids; Literature - Classics / Criticism; 1854-1900; Criticism and interpretation; Wilde, Oscar,
Description: "Studying Oscar Wilde: History, Criticism, & Myth takes issue with many assumptions current in Wilde scholarship. Professors Guy and Small are interested in the tension between Wilde's enduring popularity with the general reading public as a perennially witty entertainer and his status among academics as a complex, politicized writer attuned to the cultural and philosophical currents associated with modernity. A number of commonly held views are challenged." "To what extent is De Profundis autobiographical? How sophisticated is the learning exhibited in Intentions? In what ways are the society comedies "about" homosexuality?" "The volume also examines some of Wilde's lesser-known, unfinished works and scenarios, including The Cardinal of Avignon, La Sainte Courtisane, and A Florentine Tragedy (all printed as appendices), arguing that these "failed" works provide important insight into the reasons for Wilde's popular success." "Guy and Small have authored numerous articles and books on Wilde. This new book will be a must read for scholars, but it is also written in a jargon-free language that speaks to the wider audience of readers who enjoy Oscar Wilde."--BOOK JACKET.