In addition to providing the usual definitions of the ancient and modern terminology of literature, this dictionary addresses major themes. The author also broadens the meaning of literature. His expanded view of the term literary ncompasses topics such as Gangster film, Sitcom, nd Rap s well as Catharsis, Metaphor, nd Picaresque. mphasis is placed on terms used in the study and teaching of literature since the 1960s.Definitions seem to be aimed toward the reader with more than a little knowledge of the subject, but where background is needed to fully explain a term or concept, Quinn has provided it. Cross-references abound. Entries range in length from just one sentence (e.g., Assonance Prosody to more than a page (e.g., African American literature, Feminist criticism Pastoral )The language may get somewhat technical at times, the cross-references being a decided help in this area. The addition of thematic concepts is the feature that sets this book apart from other dictionaries of literary terms. Major, time-honored themes are here, such as Death Love and Time Topics that resonate in our own era (AIDS, Alienation, Holocaust etc.) are also included. The curious reader who is seeking additional information will find suggestions for further reading appended to key entries.This volume supplements standard titles such as A Glossary of Literary Terms 7th ed., Harcourt Brace, 1999), A Handbook to Literature (8th ed., Prentice Hall, 2000), and Greenwood's Dictionary of Themes and Motifs 1988), which treats some of the same themes in greater depth. Recommended for public, college, and high-school libraries. (Reviewed July 2000)

Gr 8 Up-Employing an expanded use of the word "literary," this volume includes social, theoretical, and historical terms as they relate to literature, film, television, and others forms of popular culture. In addition to the many expected terms (iamb, onomatopoeia), entries on places (Abbey Theatre), philosophical principles (the Absolute), movements (futurism), and discussions on major themes such as love and jealousy are also covered. Most of the clear, concise entries offer excellent examples of written and cinematic works that further clarify the definitions and/or titles of resources that provide additional commentary on the topics. While there is no pronunciation key for the foreign words and expressions, this valuable resource is more accessible and broader in approach than other literary dictionaries.-J. B. MacDonald, Milner Library, Illinois State University, Normal Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.