A Brief History of American Literature - (Second Edition)

Author: Chang Yaoxin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-09-01
Features: This book, since its publication in 1990, has been widely used as a selected college textbook for liberal arts by the Ministry of Education and an important reference book for American literature studies. It remains a bestseller. The book provides a concise account of the development of American literature from the early 17th century to the present, evaluates major writers and their representative works, and analyzes significant literary trends and schools that have shaped the era or influenced writers' creativity. The second edition incorporates new discoveries and achievements in American literature research in recent years, adding reviews of over 50 contemporary writers and works. It discusses the characteristics of postmodernism in post-war American literature, particularly in poetry, fiction, and drama. Additionally, the new edition emphasizes the inclusion of recent definitions and interpretations of American literature by critics over the past few decades, expanding the introduction to ethnic minority writers such as African American, Native American, Asian American, and Hispanic American authors. The rise of these groups has highlighted the diversification of American literature and enriched its artistic context. Professor Chang Yaoxin, the author of this book, has long been dedicated to the study of American literature, teaching on both sides of the Atlantic, and has been a specialist in British and American literature for over 20 years. He has persistently strived to absorb and integrate new developments in American literary creation and criticism into his research. As a result, the book reflects not only the author's years of teaching and research achievements but also the findings of scholars from both China and abroad. It has been used as a textbook for college English majors studying American literature, and the new edition remains suitable for students in English departments of higher education institutions. It can also serve as a must-read for postgraduate entrance exams in English and a reference book for academic research. The best textbook is the ever-popular Selected Readings in American Literature (Volumes 1 and 2), co-authored by Professor Chang and his outstanding colleagues. This series will also offer a postgraduate exam preparation guide and a Chinese abridged edition for the readers!