Does Literary Studies Have Future

Eugene Goodheart's examination of literary studies confronts the polarized debates surrounding tradition and innovation within the field. He critiques both left and right perspectives, arguing that the conflict distorts essential issues and hampers progress. Goodheart posits that literary classics should challenge rather than conform to contemporary relevance, emphasizing the dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation. He also explores the tensions between aesthetics and ideology, and critiques the academy's focus on popular culture, positioning his work as a significant commentary on the future of literary scholarship.