ABSTRACT

First published in 1972, this book provides a helpful overview of the grotesque and its use in a number of literary genres including novels, drama and poetry. After providing a historical summary of the term, the book discusses the various defining aspects of the grotesque and its relationship to other terms and modes of literature, such as satire, the comic and parody. The final chapter presents the functions and purpose of the grotesque in literature.

This book will be a useful resource for those studying literary theory and literary works which include an element of the grotesque.

chapter 1|9 pages

Introduction

chapter 3|9 pages

Towards a Definition

chapter 4|29 pages

The Grotesque and Related Terms and Modes

chapter 5|13 pages

Functions and Purposes of the Grotesque