An Introduction to Spanish-American Literature

This is a revised, updated edition of Jean Franco’s classic Introduction to Spanish-American Literature, first published in 1969 and much recommended ever since. Its coverage ranges from colonial times to the present day, the later chapters having been radically rewritten to take account of the most recent developments in both literature and criticism. The book sets the literary works discussed in their historical, political and economic context, and explores the impact on Latin-American literature of European cultural traditions. English translations are provided for Spanish quotations in the text, and the extensively updated reading lists of primary and secondary material refer not only to Spanish texts but also, where available, to editions in English.

• Thoroughly updated reissue of a classic book, the authoritative chronological account of a vast subject, in one handy volume • Revised reading lists give thorough coverage of the modern period, and refer to English editions where available • Author is very well-known, both in England (was Professor at Essex) and in US (first Stanford, now Columbia)

Introduction; 1. Independence and literary emancipation; 2. Literature and nationalism; 3. Literature and American experience; 4. To change society; 5. Modernism; 6. The rediscovery of the New World; 7. Regionalism in the novel and short story; 8. Realism and the novel; 9. The Avant-Garde in poetry; 10. Theatre; 11. Modern fiction; Conclusion; Notes; Reading lists; Index of authors.

‘… as an initiation for the beginner and as a work of reference, it is unequalled’. The Times Literary Supplement

‘It will become a standard work of reference.’ The New Vida Hispanica

‘… generally recognised as the best work of its type in English’. American Notes and Queries