European Literature from Romanticism to Postmodernism

This anthology compiles essential theoretical writings from key European literary movements, exploring romanticism, realism, modernism, and postmodernism, while highlighting the historical context and unique characteristics of each movement.

European Literature from Romanticism to Postmodernism is a comprehensive anthology that gathers essential theoretical writings from prominent figures representing various schools and movements in European literature. This collection spans a wide range of literary movements, including romanticism, realism, modernism, and the politically engaged literature of the 1920s and 1930s. Each chapter focuses on a specific movement, providing insights into the unique assumptions and practices that define the writing within that context.

The book offers an in-depth exploration of the thematic and stylistic characteristics of these literary movements, supported by historical factors that influenced their development. The introductory sections of each chapter highlight the key elements that shaped European literature during these transformative periods. By examining the major theoretical texts associated with each movement—such as manifestos, essays, and letters—readers gain a deeper understanding of the literary, aesthetic, and political goals that guided the writers of the time.

Edited by Martin Travers, a Senior Lecturer in Literary Studies at Griffith University, this anthology is notable for presenting many of these texts in translation for the first time. This makes it an invaluable resource for students and scholars alike, as it not only showcases the voices of influential writers but also contextualizes their contributions within the broader landscape of European literature. Overall, European Literature from Romanticism to Postmodernism serves as a vital reference for anyone interested in the evolution of literary thought across Europe.