This treatise explores the connection between new historicism and Renaissance literature and explores its significance for English studies as a whole. It details fresh readings of a number of classic texts, as well as an understanding of the complex functions of the canon itself.

This searching reconsideration of contemporary critical theory and practice yields fresh readings of a number of classic texts- as well as a deepened understanding of the complex and changing functions of the canon itself.

The particular interest of his book ... lies in its bracketing the endless realism/conventionalism argument and making a stimulating contribution to a debate within the conventionalist camp which has been badly needed.