Synopses & Reviews
Daniel Defoe's writings have bred controversy since their first appearance in the eighteenth century: 'Robinson Crusoe' fuels virulent disagreements among critics, while Defoe's two scandalous women, 'Moll Flanders' and 'Roxana', can still shock us and challenge the range of our sympathies. This essential study: * Takes a fresh look at these intriguing novels and leads the reader into close analysis of Defoe's texts, encouraging an open-minded approach to interpretation
* Features chapters on the novels' openings, conscience and repentance, society and economics, women and patriarchy, and the use of 'outsider' narrators
* Provides useful sections on 'Methods of Analysis' and 'Suggested Work' to aid independent study
* Offers historical and literary background, a sample of critical views, and suggestions for further reading. Equipping students with the critical and analytical skills with which to approach Defoe's work, this inspiring guide helps readers to appreciate the brilliance of the author's writing and to enjoy the complexity of his fictional creations for themselves.
Synopsis
This study takes a fresh and candid look at Robinson Crusoe, Moll Flanders and Roxana. Part I uses carefully selected short extracts for close textual analysis, while Part II examines the historical and literary contexts and a sample of criticism. The volume is an ideal introductory guide for those who are studying Defoe's work for the first time.
About the Author
NICHOLAS MARSH formerly taught English at Francis Holland School, Regent's Park, London, UK. He is author of the popular How to Begin Studying English Literature (now in its third edition) and many titles in the Analysing Texts series, of which he is the General Editor.
Table of Contents
General Editor's Preface
A Note on Editions
Introduction
PART I: ANALYSING DEFOE'S NOVELS
Setting the Agenda
Conscience and Repentance
Society and Economics
Women and Patriarchy
Instability and the Outsider
Themes and Conclusions to Part I
PART II: THE CONTEXT AND THE CRITICS
Daniel Defoe's Life and Works
The Place of Defoe's Novels in English Literature
A Sample of Critical Views
Notes
Further Reading
Index