An Essay in the Old Criticism, Second Edition [Paperback"
Worth buying if: You value erudite, essay-length literary criticism.
Skip it if: You prefer brief, introductory overviews or textbooks.
Exact edition: Edition shown · ISBN-13 9780300069174. The Amazon link uses this ISBN, so the product page should open to the edition shown here.
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Summary
An Essay in the Old Criticism, Second Edition collects George Steiner's dense, learned reflections on the history and practice of literary criticism, combining close reading with philosophical and historical argumentation across a wide range of texts.
Why this book now
This second edition from Yale University Press revives Steiner's influential voice for readers reassessing critical traditions in contemporary literary study.
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Best for readers who...
Good fit if you want...
- You value erudite, essay-length literary criticism.
- You’re interested in theory, close reading, and historical argument.
- You prefer brief, introductory overviews or textbooks.
- You seek plot-driven or fiction reading rather than critical essays.
- You are specifically hunting for the newest framing rather than a backlist perspective.
Decided it fits?
Exact edition: Edition shown · ISBN-13 9780300069174
Worth buying if: You value erudite, essay-length literary criticism.
Skip it if: You prefer brief, introductory overviews or textbooks.
Check Amazon for the current price and availability of this exact edition.
Reader guide
Cues to help you decide faster.
Reading commitment
Steady Needs some room
At 368 pages, expect sustained, attentive reading of extended essays that reward careful rereading and thought rather than casual skimming.
What stands out here
This Yale University Press second edition highlights Steiner's revised presentation of his essays and continues the original's blend of philosophy, philology, and criticism.
Best way to approach it
Approach slowly with pencil and notes—pause to follow close readings and philosophical asides, and revisit passages to unpack Steiner's arguments.
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Exact edition: ISBN-13 9780300069174
Check Amazon for the current price and availability of this exact edition.