Fictional points of view

by Peter Lamarque

In Fictional Points of View, Lamarque offers new examinations of fundamental concepts in the philosophy of literature and criticism. He questions the nature of a fictional character and the relation of fiction to reality. He ask whether truth exists in literature and whether "works" or "texts" have logical priority. The volume focuses on a wide range of thinkers, including Iris Murdoch on truth and art, Stanley Cavell on tragedy, Roland Barthes and Michel Foucault on "the death of the author," and Kendall Walton on fearing fictions. Also included is a consideration of the fifteenth-century Japanese playwright and drama teacher Zeami Motokiyo, the founding father of Noh theather. Lamarque demonstrates a careful analytical methodology and clear language, reflecting his conviction that obfuscation is inimical to humanistic study.