268 pp, large 8vo (9 1/2" H). "In this innovative and learned study, Dennis Kezar examines how Renaissance poets conceive the theme of killing as a specifically representational and interpretive form of violence. Closely reading both major poets and lesser known authors of the early modern period, Kezar explores the ethical self-consciousness and accountability that attend literary killing, paying particular attention to the ways in which this reflection indicates the poet's understanding of his audience. Among the many poems through which Kezar explores the concept of authorial guilt elicited by violent representation are Skelton's 'Phyllyp Sparrowe', Spencer's 'Faerie Queen', Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar', the multi-authored 'Witch of Edmonton', and Milton's 'Samson Agonistes'. Each chapter places an incident of textual violence within the context of England's literary and social history. In each case, Kezar offers an original account of early modern depictions of violence that reflects on the poetic process and explores the ethical ramifications of literature for both author and audience. In emphasizing the social, literary, and historical consequences of 'killing poems', this volume further advances scholarship in historicist and speech-act theories of the early modern period. (It) also contributes a provocative chapter to the current debate on the ethics of literary communication." Minor wrinkling at bottom of spine. Dust jacket has minor rubbing, minor colour offset on inside top of spine/flap-folds.

English  Literature,  Criticism,  Death,  Drama,  Tragedy,  Poetry,  Authorship,  Authors,  Guilt,  Psychology,  Psychological  Aspects,  Renaissance,  England,  Violence,  Killing,  Spenser,  John  Skelton,  Shakespeare,  Globe,  Possession,  Milton,  Dying,  Samson,  Elegies,  Literary  Criticism,  Renaissance  Poets,  Murder,  Self-Consciousness,  Ethics,  Literary  Killing,  Faerie  Queen,  Julius  Caesar,  Witch  Of  Edmonton,  Samson  Agonistes,  Social  History.