Description: Paul Gifford paints a clear and coherent picture of the evolution of erotic ideas and their imaginary and formal expressions in modern French writing. He retraces the matrix of French tradition by engaging with five classic sources: Plato's Symposium, the Song of Songs, the myth of Genesis, the tension between Greek Eros and Christian Agape, and Nietzsche's declaration of the 'death of God.' The book will appeal not only to students of French literature, but to all those interested in the cultural upheavals of the twentieth century.
Review Quotes: 'Professor Gifford ... does justice to the diversity, subtlety and complexity of the treatment of his theme in the greatest creative literature and thought of the century... . His book is a perfect blend of literary and theoretical considerations, very often quite novel. It will satisfy readers who are, and who are not, allergic to recent 'French theory'... . It should appeal not only to students of French literature but to all those who are interested in the cultural upheavals of the twentieth century.' René Girard, Professor Emeritus, Stanford University (Academy Français) 'A short review of Gifford's book cannot do justice to such a complex work. Gifford's precise, informed, detailed, and at times lyrical reading takes us readers through a fascinating literary and theoretical journey...' Modern Language Review '... a thought-provoking book written in clear and engaging manner. It will be of interest to all those interested in French or in cultural studies.' Rocky Mountain Review