Victorians in Theory

This book offers a fascinating exploration of Victorian poetry alongside modern literary theory, highlighting unexpected connections and insights throughout.

In Victorians in Theory, readers are invited to explore the intriguing intersection of Victorian poetry and twentieth-century literary theory. Each chapter presents a unique pairing of a renowned poet with a prominent theorist, creating a dialogue that bridges two distinct eras. For instance, Robert Browning engages with Jacques Derrida, while Christina Rossetti is brought into conversation with Luce Irigaray. This innovative approach not only highlights the richness of Victorian literature but also demonstrates how it can illuminate contemporary theoretical frameworks.

The author, Schad, challenges traditional critical conventions by reinterpreting poststructuralist theory through the lens of 19th-century poetry. This daring exploration reveals how Victorian poets express a sense of wonder and amazement at the developments in literary theory that follow their time. As Charles Dickens noted, each century is more astonished by the one that follows, and Victorians in Theory exemplifies this sentiment by showcasing how these poets anticipate and respond to modern ideas.

As Schad traverses the space between these influential writers, he uncovers a multitude of unexpected connections and insights. The narrative is enriched by the presence of various cultural figures, including T. S. Eliot, Martin Luther, and Friedrich Nietzsche, who inhabit this intertextual landscape. With its rigorous yet accessible prose, Victorians in Theory is an engaging read for both scholars and students interested in the captivating dialogue between Victorian literature and modern theory.