French Literature: A Very Short Introduction (23 page)

HISTORY

A Very Short Introduction

John H. Arnold

History: A Very Short Introduction is a stimulating
essay about how we understand the past. The book
explores various questions provoked by our understanding of history, and examines how these questions have
been answered in the past. Using examples of how historians work, the book shares the sense of excitement at
discovering not only the past, but also ourselves.

'A stimulating and provocative introduction to one of collective humanity's most important quests - understanding the past and its relation to the present. A vivid mix
of telling examples and clear cut analysis.'

David Lowenthal, University College London

'This is an extremely engaging book, lively, enthusiastic
and highly readable, which presents some of the fundamental problems of historical writing in a lucid and
accessible manner. As an invitation to the study of
history it should be difficult to resist.'

Peter Burke, Emmanuel College, Cambridge

ROUSSEAU

A Very Short Introduction

Robert Wokler

Rousseau was both a central figure of the European
Enlightenment and its most formidable critic. In this study
of his life, works, sources, and influence, Robert Wokler
shows how Rousseau's account of the trappings of
civilization across a wide range of disciplines was inspired
by ideals of humanity's self-realization in a condition of
unfettered freedom.

'Remarkably well-informed ... this at once chronological
and thematic treatment of Rousseau's thought makes
plain its unity and coherence. Addressing both
philosophical and political sources as well as influences,
the work includes a fine bibliographical commentary ...
and commends itself through the clarity of its exposition
and the rigour of its analysis.'

Raymond Trousson, Dix-huitieme siecle

One of the best-informed, most balanced, short general
introductions to Rousseau ... in English. . . . Wokler's
study leaves a vivid impression of Rousseau's uniqueness
and originality as a thinker.'

Graeme Garrard, History of Political Thought

DADA AND
SURREALISM

A Very Short Introduction

David Hopkins

The avant-garde movements of Dada and Surrealism
continue to have a huge influence on cultural practice,
especially in contemporary art. In this new treatment of
the subject, David Hopkins focuses on the many debates
surrounding these movements: the Marquis de Sade's
Surrealist deification, issues of quality (How good is
Dali?), the idea of the 'readymade', attitudes towards the
city and the impact of Freud.

Hopkins explores the international nature of these
movements and the huge range of media employed by
both Dada and Surrealism. He also examines the Dadaist
obsession with the body-as-mechanism in relation to the
Surrealists' return to the fetishized/eroticized body.