Texts and Contexts: Writing About Literature with Critical Theory provides an accessible introduction to contemporary critical theories from new criticism to cultural studies as part of the practice of writing about literature. Providing a wealth of writing strategies, the text explains the assumptions underlying the various critical theories, and then takes the readers through the process of employing these methods to enrich their engagements with literature. This 3rd Edition includes a new Chapter 1, An Introduction, Theoretically as well as updated coverage of research and the Internet. For anyone interested in enhancing their reading and writing skills through critical theory.