This monumental collection of new and recent essays from an international team of eminent scholars represents the best contemporary critical thinking relating to both literary and philosophical studies of literature. * Helpfully groups essays into the field's main sub-categories, among them 'Relations Between Philosophy and Literature', 'Emotional Engagement and the Experience of Reading', 'Literature and the Moral Life', and 'Literary Language' * Offers a combination of analytical precision and literary richness * Represents an unparalleled work of reference for students and specialists alike, ideal for course use