Mirror and Lamp (Romantic Literary Theory and the Tradition of Criticism)

Author: None
Publisher:
Publishing Time: None
Features: Mr. Abrams has written an important work on the history of literary criticism, which represents an outstanding contribution from American academia in this field since the publication of Spingarn's work. The book is so rich in ideas that it holds great value for scholars studying the Romantic movement and the broader theory of criticism. Abrams has provided an excellent example of research, thought, and writing, which is truly admirable. It is a fine monograph that undoubtedly holds lasting significance for several fields—intellectual history, comparative literature, British literary history, critical theory, and aesthetics. The book primarily discusses poetic theory produced in Britain during the first four decades of the 19th century, with some coverage of other major art forms as well. It emphasizes a common trend in criticism, which is why we have chosen to elaborate on "Romantic" criticism—the reason for the title; however, I believe this does not mean ignoring the many important differences among various writers. These writers were concerned with the nature of poetry and art—some explored its psychological origins, others studied its structural varieties, some examined its main principles, and others investigated the relationship between poetry or art and other major issues of human concern. Most of the critics discussed in the book are those with unique and enduring insights, rather than mediocre book reviewers, who had a more direct impact on readers but were often short-lived.