A History of Modern Criticism: 1750–1950

Author: René Wellek

Publisher: Jonathan Cape

Edition & Year: 1970 Edition

Binding: Hardcover

Pages: 390

Size: 6 in × 9 in

A History of Modern Criticism: 1750–1950 by René Wellek is a landmark scholarly work that provides a comprehensive and analytical study of the evolution of literary criticism from the Enlightenment to the mid-20th century. Published in 1970 by Jonathan Cape, this 390-page hardcover (6 × 9 inches) represents a significant contribution to the field of literary studies.

René Wellek, one of the most influential literary critics of the 20th century, offers a detailed examination of the major thinkers, movements, and ideas that shaped modern criticism. The book traces the transformation of literary thought through key periods, including Romanticism, Realism, Symbolism, and early modern critical theory, highlighting how each era contributed to the development of new interpretative approaches.

A central strength of this work is its intellectual depth and historical scope. Wellek does not merely present a chronological account; he critically engages with the ideas of major figures, analyzing their contributions and placing them within broader philosophical and cultural contexts. This approach allows readers to understand how literary criticism evolved in response to changing artistic, social, and intellectual conditions.

The book explores the work of significant critics and theorists, examining how concepts such as aesthetics, form, interpretation, and the role of the critic have developed over time. It provides insight into the shifting relationship between literature and society, as well as the growing complexity of literary analysis.

Written in a scholarly yet clear and structured style, the book is suitable for advanced readers, students, and researchers in literature and humanities. It serves both as a reference work and as a critical study, offering valuable perspectives on the foundations of modern literary theory.

The hardcover format (6 × 9 inches) ensures durability and makes it ideal for academic use and long-term collection. Its publication by Jonathan Cape further underscores its importance as a serious scholarly text.

A History of Modern Criticism: 1750–1950 is an essential work for anyone seeking to understand the intellectual history of literature and the evolution of critical thought. It stands as a cornerstone text in literary studies, combining historical breadth, analytical rigor, and intellectual insight.

• Author: René Wellek
• Publisher: Jonathan Cape, 1970 Edition
• Format: Hardcover, 390 pages
• Size: 6 × 9 inches – academic format
• Content: Comprehensive study of literary criticism (1750–1950)
• Topics Covered: Romanticism, realism, symbolism, theory
• Focus: Evolution of critical thought and literary theory
• Style: Scholarly, analytical, and structured
• Audience: Students, scholars, literature enthusiasts
• Collector Appeal: Foundational literary criticism text

🔹 Collector’s Note

This 1970 hardcover edition of A History of Modern Criticism: 1750–1950 is a significant and authoritative academic work. Its intellectual depth, historical importance, and scholarly reputation make it a valuable addition for collectors of literary criticism, philosophy, and academic literature.