The Cambridge Introduction to Toni Morrison

Lively and accessibly written, this Introduction offers readers a guide to the complex and rewarding literature of Toni Morrison.

Tessa Roynon (Author)

9780521177221, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 26 November 2012

150 pages
22.8 x 15.2 x 1.1 cm, 0.23 kg

'In her discussions of each of Morrison's oeuvre, Roynon's keen observations help highlight a wide array of sources, ur-texts, subtexts, and traditions, ranging from African folklore to African American cultural innovations such as jazz and blues, from the Bible to Ancient Greek and Roman literature, and from European literature, especially novel to American national myths.' Journal of American Studies of Turkey

Toni Morrison has written some of the most significant and demanding fiction of the modern age. Her dazzling depictions of African-American experience are studied in high schools and colleges, debated in the media and analyzed by scholars at an astounding rate. This Introduction offers readers a guide to the world of Morrison in all its complexity, from her status as a key player on the global intellectual stage to her unique perspective on American history and her innovative narrative techniques. Covering every novel from The Bluest Eye to A Mercy, Tessa Roynon combines close readings with critical insights into Morrison's other creative work, such as short stories, libretto and song lyrics and unpublished pieces for performance. Lively and accessibly written, Roynon's insightful text is ideal for readers approaching Morrison for the first time as well as those familiar with her work.

Preface
List of abbreviations
1. Life
2. Works
3. Contexts
4. Reception
Notes
Guide to further reading
Index.

Subject Areas: Literary reference works [DSR], Literary studies: fiction, novelists & prose writers [DSK], Literary studies: general [DSB]