The Oxford Handbook of Philosophy and Literature

This volume explores literature's role in understanding human life through essays by prominent philosophers and literary scholars, including The Oxford Handbook of Philosophy and Literature.

This comprehensive volume features twenty-three newly commissioned essays from leading philosophers and literary scholars, exploring literature as a vital means of attending to human life. The essays delve into various forms of attention, categorized under Genres, Periods, Devices and Powers, and Contexts and Uses. Each section provides a nuanced examination of how literature reflects and shapes our understanding of the human experience.

In the section on Genres, contributors analyze a wide range of literary forms, from Ancient Epics to Contemporary Experimental Writing. The Periods section looks at how different literary movements, such as Realism, Romanticism, and Postcolonialism, have influenced the way we perceive and engage with literature. The Devices and Powers segment investigates essential elements of storytelling, including imagination, plot, character, style, and emotion, revealing their significance in crafting meaningful narratives.

The Oxford Handbook of Philosophy and Literature emphasizes the interplay between literature and the sociohistorical contexts in which it exists. By examining literature’s role in addressing fundamental human needs—such as orientation, emotional expression, and ethical inquiry—the essays collectively illustrate the profound impact literature has on cultural life. Ultimately, this volume highlights the ongoing dialogue between philosophers and literary creators, showcasing how they have both challenged and enriched one another's perspectives throughout history.