Synopses & Reviews
J. M. Coetzee's work addresses some of the key critical issues of our time: the relationship between postmodernism and postcolonialism, the role of history in the novel, and, repeatedly, how the author can combine a political consciousness with a commitment to the novel as a work of fiction. In this study, which may be used both as an introduction and by those already familiar with Coetzee's work, Dominic Head shows how Coetzee's engagement with the problems facing the postcolonial writer is always enriched by his awareness of a wider literary tradition.
Synopsis
Dominic Head shows how J. M. Coetzeeâs work addresses some of the key critical issues of the twentieth century: the relationship between postmodernism and postcolonialism, the role of history in the novel, and, repeatedly, how the author can combine a political consciousness with a commitment to the novel as fiction.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 179-190) and index.
Table of Contents
1. The writerâs place: Coetzee and postcolonial literature; 2. Writing violence: Dusklands; 3. The wrong kind of love: In the Heart of the Country; 4. An ethical awakening: Waiting for the Barbarians; 5. Gardening as resistance: Life and Times of Michael K; 6. The maze of doubting: Foe; 7. A true confession: Age of Iron; 8. Producing the demon: The Master of Petersburg; Notes; Bibliography; Index.