The Politics of Literary Studies

The Politics of Literary Studies examines how literature, its interpretation, and scholarship are influenced by social, political, and cultural power dynamics. It explores questions about who decides what is considered important or meaningful in literature and how various identities—like race, gender, and class—shape literary analysis. This approach reveals that literary studies are not neutral but affected by broader societal issues, encouraging scholars to consider diverse perspectives and challenge traditional biases. In short, it highlights how politics and social context shape the way we understand and value literature.