Product Description

The American Ideal argues that the institution of American literary scholarship enshrines a reactionary view of history, of narrative, and a reactionary and dangerous view of America itself. It examines the way the idea of `America' has been wrapped up with American literary history and unwraps the implications of that relationship for contemporary debates about the methods and status of literary history in general.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #2607663 in Books
• Published on: 1991-11-07
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 224 pages

Review
"A well-timed and well-directed broadside aimed at those who make a career of Transcendentalist studies--or in American literary scholarship, traditionally conceived--as well as at those newly entrenched in institutional power who think they have found the real meaning of America."--American Literature
"His study is quite stimulating, raising questions about interpretation but without the polemical tone characteristic of many studies in recent decades....The book, written in an engaging style, is a substantial contribution to American literary history, one which will invite both praise and debate. Recommended for public and academic libraries, with special value to students of American literary history."--Choice
"This lively, suggestive book is certain to arouse much discussion and debate, and it will have an important impact on the future direction of American literary studies."--William E. Cain, Wellesley College
"The American Ideal establishes its author as one of today's most provocative critics of American literary study. Even when I disagree with Peter Carafiol, I admire his splendid writing and learn from his incisive arguments."--Steven Mailloux, University of California, Irvine
"[Carafiol's] assessment of diverse approaches to the relationship of literature and history is worth the attention of any practicing twentieth-century scholar, critic, or teacher....his book as a whole is both provocative and constructive."--Comparative Literature Studies