What accounts for the popularity of novels that American readers return to time and again? In this important study, now available in paperback, Robinson argues that these texts both celebrate and betray our ideals regarding race, slavery, and gender relations. In discussions of classic novels such as Riders of the Purple Sage, The Last of the Mohicans, The Virginian, The Sea-Wolf, and Shane he illustrates how authors' and readers' attempts to have it both ways compel them to return repeatedly to stories that deal with major cultural embarrassments.

Robinson disputes the belief that works of popular culture avoid contested issues or raise them briefly in order to manage them. In his view these popular works betray a greater critical and social awareness than is usually recognized, but they then subvert or deny that knowledge.

Robinson's theoretical postscript places his discussion of this pattern of recognition and denial in the context of debates on literary theory and popular culture, making the book invaluable to all students of Western literature.

About the Author

Forrest G. Robinson is professor of English and American Studies at Oakes College, University of California, Santa Cruz.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Store Description

ThriftBooks is a fully independent seller of used books, having sold more than 160 million used and new books since we started in 2003. Each quality used book is sorted, graded, shelved and shipped by hand by our team of dedicated employees in our seven warehouses across the US. We have the best selection of books, in the right condition and format, at everyday low prices. We also have a dedicated, US-based Customer Service team, ranked in the top three by Newsweek for Best Customer Service in 2018 and 2019, so you can shop with confidence. We support and invest in our employees, appreciate and value our customers, and truly believe in the power of the written word to educate, energize, and engage readers of all ages and interests.

Visit Seller's Storefront

Seller's business information

Thrift Books Global LLC
18300 Cascade Ave S, Seattle, WA, 98188, U.S.A.

Sale & Shipping Terms

Terms of Sale

We guarantee each book that we send you. If you have any problems, please contact
our dedicated customer service department. They will do everything possible to
ensure you are happy with your order.

Shipping Terms

All domestic Standard shipments are distributed from our warehouses by OSM, then handed off to the USPS for final delivery.

2-Day Shipping is delivered by FedEx, which does not deliver to PO boxes.

International shipments are tendered to the local postal service in the destination country for final delivery – We do not use courier services for international deliveries.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.
Order quantity	4 to 8 business days	4 to 8 business days
First item	US$ 0.00	US$ 0.00

Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.