Prefaces to the Experience of Literature

by Lionel Trilling

The fifty-two critical commentaries Trilling wrote to accompany each selection in his text book anthology, The Experience of Literature. This book is a wonderful journey through literary history, from the Greek dramatists to present day. Foreword by William Jovanovich.

Genres: Criticism

241 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1979

About the author

Lionel Mordecai Trilling was an American literary critic, short story writer, essayist, and teacher. He was one of the leading U.S. critics of the 20th century who analyzed the contemporary cultural, social, and political implications of literature. With his wife Diana Trilling (née Rubin), whom he married in 1929, he was a member of the New York Intellectuals and contributor to the Partisan Review.

Reviews

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

These are wonderful essays about literature that were originally written for a college level textbook. I had the original textbook for my own class in college and have enjoyed these essays for over 40 years. They are commentaries on plays, stories, and poems — and they shine a good light on each work for understanding and appreciation.

[Rob Henry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Writing about great writing that's equally great.

[Paul Duggan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better to read The Experience of Literature itself which consists of the works themselves as well as these prefaces.