Function and Development of the Marvellous in Literature (Classic Reprint)
Language: English
Published by Forgotten Books, 2018
- Softcover
- New



Seller: Forgotten Books, London, United KingdomForgotten Books
AbeBooks seller since June 2, 2021
Condition: New
US$ 17.07
Quantity: Over 20 available
Add to basketItem description from seller
Print on Demand. This book presents an in-depth analysis of the role and evolution of the marvellous in literature. The text begins by highlighting the ways in which Aristotle touched on the subject and how his ideas laid the foundation for future literary criticism. The author traces the development of the marvellous from its humble origins in religion and folklore to its sophisticated literary forms. Along the way, the book examines the different characteristics of wonder and marvel and how they manifest in various literary genres, from epic poetry to romantic fiction. The author argues that the marvellous has a unique affinity with literature, as both are rooted in imagination. This connection has fostered a mutually beneficial relationship, with literature providing a natural platform for the marvellous to flourish and evolve, and the marvellous, in turn, inspiring new forms of literary expression and exploration. This book is a reproduction of an important historical work, digitally reconstructed using state-of-the-art technology to preserve the original format. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in the book. …
Seller Inventory # 9781333467531_0
- Title
- Function and Development of the Marvellous in Literature (Classic Reprint)
- Author
- Benjamin P. Kurtz
- Publisher
- Forgotten Books
- Publication year
- 2018
- Condition
- New
- Book Type
- print-on-demand item
- Binding
- Paperback
- Language
- English
- ISBN 10
- 1333467532
- ISBN 13
- 9781333467531
- Seller catalogs
- Psychology
This book traces the close links between imagination, religion, and literature, showing how the marvellous moved from sacred belief to aesthetic art. It surveys the rise of literary criticism, from ethical concerns about myth to a distinct, purely literary theory of poetic truth. A clear arc runs from ancient Greek commentary to Aristotle’s break with moral philosophy, revealing how wonder became a central tool in understanding narrative.
Beyond theory, the work examines primitive origins of marvel, how exaggeration and ritual shaped early tales, and the social roles that fostered extraordinary belief. It discusses how storytellers, priests, and magicians helped form the marvel as a literary force across cultures, and why exaggerated tales still carry power in contemporary writing.
- See how criticism evolves from moral debate to aesthetic analysis
- Learn how primitive beliefs and practices influence narrative wonder
- Understand the role of exaggeration, taboo, and ritual in story-making
- Explore the long history of the marvellous in literature and myth
Ideal for readers of literary history, myth, and the study of how imagination shapes narrative.
"Synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
Forgotten Books
London, United Kingdom
AbeBooks seller since June 2, 2021
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Forgotten Books’ Classic Reprint Series utilizes the latest technology to regenerate facsimiles of historically important writings. Careful attention has been made to accurately preserve the original format of each page whilst digitally enhancing the quality of the aged text.
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