Deconstruction - Derrida

In this introduction to the work of Jacques Derrida, Julian Wolfreys challenges the notion that what Derrida does can be turned into a theory for literary interpretation. He questions the belief in a critical methodology called "deconstruction" which can be applied to literary texts in a programmatic fashion. Wolfreys introduces the reader to the range of Derrida's interests and concerns, while tendering readings informed by Derrida's thought of canonical and less well-known literary works. He works through considerations of what deconstruction might or might not be, while offering a critical appreciation of the reception of Derrida's work within the institution of literary criticism.

In this introduction to the work of Jacques Derrida, Julian Wolfreys challenges the notion that what Derrida does can be turned into a theory for literary interpretation. He questions the belief in a critical methodology called "deconstruction" which can be applied to literary texts in a programmatic fashion. Wolfreys introduces the reader to the range of Derrida's interests and concerns, while tendering readings informed by Derrida's thought of canonical and less well-known literary works. He works through considerations of what deconstruction might or might not be, while offering a critical appreciation of the reception of Derrida's work within the institution of literary criticism.

Booknews

This introduction to Derrida critiques the use of deconstruction (if it indeed exists) as a tool for literary analysis. The author rebelliously emphasizes construction--building relationships between terms, texts, and themes, and exploring how identities are created through rhetoric. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

Julian Wolfreys is Honorary Lecturer in English at the University of Dundee.