The Invention of English Criticism

Discover the fascinating evolution of literary criticism in Michael Gavin's Invention of English Criticism, published by Cambridge University Press in 2017. This engaging paperback spans 228 pages and offers a lively exploration of how literary critique transformed from the mid-seventeenth to the mid-eighteenth centuries. Gavin delves into the informal verbal responses of readers and playgoers, highlighting the dynamic interactions among authors as they critiqued each other's works. Furthermore, the book examines the rise of editors and book reviewers who became the official arbiters of literary taste during this pivotal period. Perfect for scholars and enthusiasts of English drama and literary history, this insightful work sheds light on the foundational shifts that shaped modern criticism in Great Britain. Enhance your understanding of literary discourse with this essential read.