268 pp, large 8vo (9 1/2" H), hard cover in dust jacket. ISBN 0195142950 "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 v iolence. 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 t h i s r e f l ection 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 Quee n' , Sh ak e sp ea re '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, Keza r o ff ers an o rig ina l a cco unt 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 cons equ ence s of 'k illi ng p oems ', t his 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 commun icati on." Min or wr inkl ing a t bot tom o f spi ne. Dust jacket has minor rubbing, minor color offset on inside top of spine/flap-folds. Fine/Very Good+

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,  Elegi