Postmodernism: A Very Short Introduction

Description

Very Short Introductions have proven to be extremely popular with general readers, as well as undergraduates and their lecturers.

Postmodernism has been a buzzword in contemporary society for the last decade. But how can it be defined? In this Very Short Introduction Christopher Butler challenges and explores the key ideas of postmodernists, and their engagement with theory, literature, the visual arts, film, architecture, and music. He treats artists, intellectuals, critics, and social scientists ‘as if they were all members of a loosely constituted and quarrelsome political party’ – a party which includes such members as Cindy Sherman, Salman Rushdie, Jacques Derrida, Walter Abish, and Richard Rorty – creating a vastly entertaining framework in which to unravel the mysteries of the ‘postmodern condition’, from the politicizing of museum culture to the cult of the politically correct.

Key Features

• Enjoyable discussion of a subject popular amongst students and general readers interested in contemporary culture
• Covers a wide range of theorists, artists, and writers
• Highlights the positive and negative aspects of postmodernism
• Examines the aesthetic, philosophical, and political realms of postmodernism
• Chris Butler writes lucidly and perceptively

Table of Contents

1. The rise of postmodernism
2. New ways of seeing the world
3. Politics and identity
4. The culture of postmodernism
5. The ‘postmodern condition’
6. References
7. Further reading
8. Index

About the Series

Oxford’s Very Short Introductions series offers concise and original introductions to a wide range of subjects – from Public Health to Buddhist Ethics, Soft Matter to Classics, and Art History to Globalization. Each volume provides an authoritative and engaging assessment of a concept, field, or body of work, drawing out the central ideas, themes, and approaches. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, new insights, and enthusiasm to make often challenging topics highly readable to develop your core knowledge. With over 700 titles and many more in development, as well as regularly updated new editions, the series is constantly evolving to reflect a contemporary readership. Whatever your area of study, whatever the topic that fascinates you, the series is an indispensable and accessible guide that will enrich your understanding.

Reviews

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“I love the Very Short Introduction Series as should everyone who is interested in the history of ideas. They manage to straddle that difficult line between making the complex accessible without ever compromising on quality. The sheer range of subjects covered make the series an invaluable asset for anyone trying to understand the development of human thought. They are a must-go-to gateway for those of us keen to know more but needing a steer as to where to start.” – Claire Fox, Director, Institute of Ideas

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Author Biography

Christopher Butler, Professor of English Literature and a Fellow of Christ Church College, Oxford University