Matthew Arnold: A Critical Portrait (Paperback)

Stefan Collini (author)

£41.49

Paperback 156 Pages
Published: 28/02/2008

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Synopsis

Matthew Arnold (1822-88), the leading man-of-letters of the Victorian age, has been the decisive influence on modern thinking about literature and criticism and his work has become an inescapable cultural reference point today. In this stylish and entertaining book Stefan Collini examines the whole range of Arnold's literary, social, and religious criticism as well as his poetry, placing them in the context of the major intellectual controversies of the nineteenth century. By attending to the distinctive power of Arnold's writing to charm, tease, persuade, and irritate, the book provides a brilliant characterization of the tone and temper of his mind. This edition includes a substantial Afterword which reflects on Arnold's continuing polemical significance and his role in contemporary cultural debate.

Publisher: Oxford University Press
ISBN: 9780199541881
Number of pages: 156
Weight: 187 g
Dimensions: 203 x 127 x 10 mm

MEDIA REVIEWS

Review from previous edition The combination of perception, discernment, and balanced judgement in dealing with Arnold's accomplishments and legacy make Collini's book the best brief introduction that I have read. * Jerold J. Savory, Victorian Studies *
Writing about [Arnold] in such a limited format... is no easy task. Stefan Collini has performed it brilliantly in this excellent little book... a very fine achievement indeed. * Sylvere Monod, Modern Language Review *
Collini has reproduced the elegance and graceful levity of the Arnoldian style here, with some additional flourishes of wit... the best brief introduction to the man and his work that we are likely to have. * Chris Baldick, Times Literary Supplement *
Critical of his many limitations, yet alive to his seductive power, Stefan Collini has got Matthew Arnold's measure. Arnold would recognise himself in this brief, telling study. * Jim McCue, Country Life *