Review by Choice Review
Haslett (St. Patrick's College, Dublin) takes on the burden of demonstrating the relevance of Marxist literary theory at a time when many critics have already written its obituary. She begins by navigating the main currents of traditional Marxist literary theory in order to reveal its rich diversity of thought. In reviewing key Marxist theories and demonstrating them through application, Haslett attempts to dispel the oft-held belief that Marxism is a single, dogmatic theory practiced only by ideologues. Readers unfamiliar with the major Marxist literary theorists may find this first section difficult to follow, since Haslett often refers to these figures solely by last name. The strength of the book is the examples, which perfectly illuminate the particular theory under discussion. Indeed, the middle section of the book helpfully provides three extended readings that show how subtly complex Marxist criticism can be. In the final section, Haslett takes cultural studies and post-Marxism to task for de-politicizing Marxist theory, but at the same time she embraces the theories as a means of moving the Marxist project forward. A much-needed reminder of the explanatory power offered by Marxist literary theory, this book will serve undergraduate and graduate students. A. T. Vaver; Brandeis University
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
