The Postmodern

HOW CAN ONE UNDERSTAND THE NATURE OF THE PRESENT? WHAT MIGHT IT MEAN TO SAY THE WORLD HAS BECOME POSTMODERN? Simon Malpas investigates the theories and definitions of postmodernism and postmodernity, and explores their impact in such areas as identity, history, art, literature and culture. In attempting to locate the essence of the postmodern, and the contrasting experiences of postmodernity in the Western and developing worlds, he looks closely at: modernism and postmodernism modernity and postmodernity subjectivity history politics This useful guidebook will introduce students to a range of key thinkers who have sought to question the contemporary situation, and will enable readers to begin to approach the primary texts of postmodern theory and culture with confidence.

Simon Malpas is Lecturer in English Literature at Edinburgh University.