Stefan Collini delves into the intricate relationship between literature and intellectual history, with a particular focus on the 20th-century British context. His work critically examines the cultural role of literary criticism and the underlying historical assumptions that shaped it. He explores the position of intellectuals, the dynamic between academic critics and 'men of letters,' and the broader function of cultural critique. Collini's scholarship offers profound insights into the evolution and public discourse surrounding universities and their societal impact.
In the book born from his Oxford Ford Lectures, Stefan Collini challenges the historical assumptions at work in twentieth-century English literary criticism, showing how the work of critics was bound up with claims about the nature and direction of historical change, the interpretation of the national past, and the work of earlier scholars.
In a series of penetrating and attractively readable essays, Stefan Collini, one of the most brilliant essayists of our time, explores aspects of the literary and intellectual culture of Britain in the twentieth century.
A devastating analysis of what is happening to our universities Does 'marketization' threaten to destroy what we most value about education? Will this new era of 'accountability' distort what it purports to measure? What do we mean by a 'public' system of higher education and how should we defend it?Globalization has transformed the economic horizon. At the same time governments have systematically imposed new regulations for funding, governance, and assessment. Increasingly, universities behave more like business enterprises in a commercial marketplace than centers of learning. In recent decades there has been an immense global surge in the number of universities and the size of the student population. Technology has created new ways of learning and teaching.In Speaking of Universities, historian and critic Stefan Collini analyses these changes and challenges the assumptions of policymakers and commentators. This is an urgent call to 'focus on what is actually happening and the cliches behind which it hides; an incitement to think again, think more clearly, and then to press for something better.'
Across the world, universities are more numerous than they have ever been, yet at the same time there is unprecedented confusion about their purpose and skepticism about their value. This title offers an argument for rethinking the way we see our universities, and why we need them.
These two volumes feature a collection of essays from prominent scholars, exploring the complexities of modern British intellectual history. The contributions delve into various themes, ideas, and influential figures that have shaped British thought, providing a comprehensive analysis of the intellectual landscape. Together, they offer valuable insights into the evolution of ideas and their impact on contemporary society.
This collection features essays from prominent scholars that explore significant themes and figures in modern British intellectual history. The two volumes delve into various aspects of thought, culture, and the evolution of ideas, providing a comprehensive analysis of the intellectual landscape in Britain. Each essay offers unique insights, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the development of modern British thought.
The collection delves into the literary and intellectual culture of Britain from the early twentieth century to today, highlighting the contributions of critics and historians aimed at general audiences. It examines the various periodicals and genres used to engage readers, showcasing the evolution of thought and criticism during this period. Through these essays, the work reflects on the broader cultural landscape and the impact of accessible literary discourse.
L. T. Hobhouse and Political Argument in England 1880-1914
The book delves into the intricate connections between Liberalism and sociology during late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century Britain. Collini examines how these two fields influenced each other, shaping social thought and political discourse of the era. Through a historical lens, it offers insights into the evolution of ideas and their impact on society, making it a significant contribution to the understanding of British intellectual history.
Matthew Arnold, a prominent Victorian figure, significantly shaped contemporary views on literature and criticism. His influential writings continue to serve as essential cultural reference points, reflecting his lasting impact on modern thought and literary discourse.
Challenging the notion that Britain lacks 'real' intellectuals, this comprehensive account delves into the concept of 'the intellectual' in twentieth-century Britain. Stefan Collini presents a nuanced analysis, exploring the contributions of notable figures like T.S. Eliot, George Orwell, and Edward Said. Through detailed discussions, the book offers insights into the role and impact of intellectuals in shaping cultural and political discourse, revealing a rich tapestry of thought and influence in British history.