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The Fiction of Ruth Rendell: Ancient Tragedy and The Modern Family - Softcover

Leavy, Barbara Fass

  • 3.45 out of 5 stars
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9781439270141: The Fiction of Ruth Rendell: Ancient Tragedy and The Modern Family

Synopsis

In The Fiction of Ruth Rendell: Ancient Tragedy and the Modern Family, Barbara Fass Leavy interprets the multi-layered themes treated by Rendell, who also writes as Barbara Vine. Mysteries as popular entertainment are distinguished from mysteries as literary art, establishing that Rendell's books are capable of meaningful and pleasurable rereading even when "whodunit" is remembered. Leavy argues that Rendell draws on Greek tragedy and the psychological theories of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung. By employing the Oedipus and Electra complexes, Leavy explores the ways in which Rendell's characters are enmeshed in disturbed family relationships. Complex and illuminating, this book will appeal to Rendell fans, mystery lovers, and students of crime fiction. It will also supply valuable insights to sociologists, psychologists, and family therapists. The Fiction of Ruth Rendell: Ancient Tragedy and the Modern Family probes deeply the subjects treated by a brilliant and original writer.

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About the Author

Barbara Fass Leavy is a former Professor of English Literature at Queens College of the City University of New York. Currently, she is Adjunct Professor of English in Psychiatry at the Institute for the History of Psychiatry, Weill Medical College of Cornell University. Leavy is the author of numerous essays on literature, folklore, and crime fiction. She has written four books, including To Blight With Plague: Studies in a Literary Theme and In Search of the Swan Maiden: A Narrative on Folklore and Gender.

Review

"This insightful book makes a complete and detailed analysis of the works of Ruth Rendell and is a must for readers of Rendell’s works." —Vicki Britton, co-author of the Ardis Cole and Jeff McQuede Mystery Series

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