"This popular, step-by-step guide presents a user-friendly introduction to contemporary critical theories— from new criticism to cultural studies— so readers can gain a deeper understanding of literature." "Texts and Contexts 5e" guides readers step-by-step through the application of a particular theory, giving them clear, practical examples. The text provides a wealth of writing strategies, examples, and practice materials that assist in explaining the assumptions underlying the various critical theories. Literary criticism, writing about literature, literary theory.