About Literary Theory

Contents and Editorial Policy

The criteria for the inclusion of works in Literary Theory seek to reflect the diverse material and interests encompassed by the history of literary theory and criticism. In addition to works written in English, the database includes works which were originally written in other languages but which have had a significant bearing on English and American traditions of theory and criticism, or which have influenced contemporary theoretical debate in the English-speaking world. All works in the database appear in English.

Among its contents, the database includes:

formal treatises on criticism and aesthetics
discourses on the character or practice of specific genres
theories of imagination, genius and taste
literary biography, criticism and literary history that expresses important general arguments and precepts
literary prefaces and dedications
rhetorical treatises
poetry which expresses or implies rules of composition or standards of judgement
theoretical works in disciplines other than English literature which have had a major influence on literary theory

Editions and Texts

The principles guiding the choice of editions are as follows:

For out-of-copyright material, early printed texts, mainly first editions, are generally used. Where texts have been revised by their author after their first appearance in print and later republished, the last revised edition is generally used. Where the quality of early editions or translations has been deemed unacceptable by the editorial board later editions have been preferred.
Where no early out-of-copyright edition of an essential work exists, a modern text will be used.
For copyright works, the best available edition will be chosen.
Images and notes that are integral to the text have been included.

The Editorial Board

Dr Simon Jarvis, University of Cambridge (Editor-in-Chief)
Professor Derek Attridge, University of York
Professor Jonathan Culler, Cornell University
Dr Vicky Lebeau, University of Sussex
Professor Tilottama Rajan, Director, Centre for the Study of Theory and Criticism, University of Western Ontario

Editorial Advisors:

Dr Neil Croally, Dulwich College, London.
Dr Tom Keymer, University of Oxford
Dr Robert Maslen, University of Glasgow
Dr Guy Reynolds, University of Kent