Modern Literatures in Perspective

"Modern Literatures in Perspective" presents the best reactions to each subject, from contemporary comment to seminal modern readings, together with substantial guidance for the student. Providing both an introduction to and fresh perspectives on each subject, whether studied in the original language or in translation, the series meets the needs of those studying and teaching international literatures. Benito Perez Galdos (1843-1920) is Spain's major 19th-century realist writer. Influenced by Balzac, Dickens, Zola and Tolstoy, his work charts the consolidation and decline of the bourgeoisie in late 19th-century Spain. He charts the insecurities of this group particularly through its gender relationships, making him a significant writer for feminists. This anthology examines the Galdos technique of using everyday melodrama to his advantage and offers a variety of critical and textual interpretations including linguistic, comparative, New Critical, Marxist, Feminist and metafictional. All the essays are supported by a wide-ranging introduction, headnotes to each piece and full appendices. The book contains a section on contemporary comment, which includes Galdos's own reflections on his work. The Appendix gives information on key terms and cultural figures of the period for readers unfamiliar with 19th-century Spain. This book is aimed at undergraduates and the following courses: Hispanic studies; comparative literature; literature in translation; European literature.