With a new introduction and fully updated pointers to further reading, this third edition of Hans Bertens` bestselling book is a must-have guide to the world of literary theory. Exploring a broad range of topics from Marxist and feminist criticism to post-modernism and new historicism it includes new coverage of: the latest developments in post-colonial and cultural theory; literature and sexuality; the latest schools of thought, including eco-criticism and post-humanism; and, the future of literary theory and criticism. "Literary Theory: the Basics" is an essential purchase for anyone who wants to know what literary theory is and where it is going.