Grotesque

Citation

Edwards JD & Graulund R (2013) Grotesque. New Critial Idiom. London: Routledge. https://www.routledge.com/Grotesque/Edwards-Graulund-Drakakis/p/book/9780415519106

Abstract
Grotesque provides an invaluable and accessible guide to the use (and abuse) of this complex literary term. Justin D. Edwards and Rune Graulund explore the influence of the grotesque on cultural forms throughout history, with particular focus on its representation in literature, visual art and film.  The book:  presents a history of the literary grotesque from Classical writing to the present  examines theoretical debates around the term in their historical and cultural contexts  introduce readers to key writers and artists of the grotesque, from Homer to Rabelais, Shakespeare, Carson McCullers and David Cronenberg  analyses key terms such as disharmony, deformed and distorted bodies, misfits and freaks  explores the grotesque in relation to queer theory, post-colonialism and the carnivalesque.  Grotesque presents readers with an original and distinctive overview of this vital genre and is an essential guide for students of literature, art history and film studies.