Anti-Sport Sentiments in Literature
Batting for the Opposition
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd
Published:6th Nov '07
Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back
This hardback is available in another edition too:
- Paperback£43.99(9780415596251)
This book explores anti-sport sentiments through the writings of notable authors, analyzing their perspectives and contributions to the discourse, ultimately appealing to those in both social sciences and humanities.
Anti-Sport Sentiments in Literature explores the intersection of literature and anti-sport discourse by highlighting the perspectives of various novelists and poets. The primary goal of the book is to expand the existing conversations around anti-sport sentiments by incorporating voices that have previously been overlooked in this discourse.
The book begins with a comprehensive review of current pro- and anti-sport discussions, setting the stage for a deeper analysis. It then delves into the works of five notable authors: Lewis Carroll (Charles Dodgson), Charles Hamilton Sorley, Jerome K. Jerome, John Betjeman, and Alan Sillitoe. Through a close examination of their writings, the author uncovers the underlying anti-sport rhetoric present in their texts, revealing how these literary figures have expressed their critiques of sports culture.
Innovative in its approach, this book offers a fresh perspective on the relationship between sport and literature, addressing a topic that has not been extensively explored before. It aims to engage readers from both the social sciences and humanities, inviting them to reconsider the role of literature in shaping attitudes toward sports. By drawing connections between literary expression and anti-sport sentiments, the book contributes to a broader understanding of how cultural narratives around sports are constructed and challenged.
"There are many things to admire in this book. The opening chapter, for example, provides one of the best summaries of sport and literature I have read in a long time. Bale's close readings of his chosen texts are both sensitive and intelligent, bringing out many new perspectives on the writers. His defence of his subject - the oppositional literature of sport and body culture - is vigorous and persuasive, and set within a wealth of references. "
"...this is a fascinating book. It has something of the 'showstopper' quality about it."
Jeffrey Hill, De Montfort University
"There are many things to admire in this book. The opening chapter, for example, provides one of the best summaries of sport and literature I have read in a long time. Bale's close readings of his chosen texts are both sensitive and intelligent, bringing out many new perspectives on the writers. His defence of his subject - the oppositional literature of sport and body culture - is vigorous and persuasive, and set within a wealth of references. "
"...this is a fascinating book. It has something of the 'showstopper' quality about it."
Jeffrey Hill, De Montfort University
"Bale’s central achievement is to demonstrate the rich potential within
literature in its broadest sense for the sports historian. Bale takes the
reader on a journey across time and space, into writers’ imaginations but
also connected with the real concerns of the age in which they were
writing."
"Bale’s willingness to reveal the complexities of his chosen authors, and to
link their writings directly to their life and times, makes for a fascinating
read."
Paul Dimeo, University of Stirling
ISBN: 9780415422659
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 478g
222 pages