Synopses & Reviews
Gillian Steinberg offers an approachable introduction to the poems of one of the most prolific and influential English writers, through an examination of wide-ranging selections from his work.
Part I of this invaluable study:
• provides clear and stimulating close readings of Thomas Hardy's key poems
• considers major themes in Hardy's poetry, including ghosts, God's role in the world, war, and the painful passage of time
• summarizes the methods of analysis and provides suggestions for further work.
Part II supplies essential background material, featuring:
• an account of Hardy's life and works
• samples of criticism from important Hardy scholars.
With a helpful Further Reading section, this insightful volume is ideal for anyone who wishes to appreciate and explore Hardy's poetry for themselves.
About the Author
GILLIAN STEINBERG is Assistant Professor of English and Director of Composition at Yeshiva College, New York, USA.
Table of Contents
General Editor's Preface
Acknowledgements
A Note on the Text
Introduction
PART I: ANALYSING THOMAS HARDY'S POETRY
1. Poet as Storyteller
2. Ghosts
3. God, Man and the Natural World
4. War and Its Casualties
5. The Self and Time
PART II: THE CONTEXT AND THE CRITICS
6. Thomas Hardy's Life and Works
7. Critical Views
Notes
Further Reading
List of Works Cited
Index