Beyond Nature Writing

Ecocriticism, a field of study that has expanded dramatically over the past decade, has nevertheless remained—until recently—closely focused on critical analyses of nature writing and literature of wilderness. Karla Armbruster and Kathleen R. Wallace push well beyond that established framework with this groundbreaking collection of essays by respected ecocritics and scholars from the literary and environmental arenas. Together, their work signals a new direction in the field and offers refreshingly original insights into a broad spectrum of texts.

University of Virginia Press

Ecocriticism, a field of study that has expanded dramatically over the past decade, has nevertheless remained--until recently--closely focused on critical analyses of nature writing and literature of wilderness. Karla Armbruster and Kathleen R. Wallace push well beyond that established framework with this groundbreaking collection of essays by respected ecocritics and scholars from the literary and environmental arenas. Together, their work signals a new direction in the field and offers refreshingly original insights into a broad spectrum of texts.

Booknews

This collection of essays on ecocriticism can be used in classes in ecocriticism, introduction to graduate studies courses, and introduction to theory and criticism courses. Essays are organized in sections on reevaluating the roots of Western attitudes toward nature, ecocritical perspectives on 19th- and 20th-century authors, and expanding ecocriticism across genres and disciplines. According to the editors, essays have been selected "because of their appeal and accessibility to literary and cultural scholars who have an interest in ecocriticism but are looking for examples of how this approach might intersect with their primary fields of study." Material is also of interest to general readers. Armbruster teaches English at Webster University. Wallace is an independent scholar and writer currently working with the Ohio League of Conservation Voters. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Karla Armbruster is Assistant Professor of English at Webster University, St. Louis, and coauthor with Donald G. Kaufman of Finding Our Niche: The Human Role in Healing the Earth.

Kathleen R. Wallace is an independent scholar and writer currently working with the Ohio League of Conservation Voters and coeditor of Writing Lives: Exploring Literacy and Community.