Combining the elements of an anthology, a writing-about-literature book, and a dictionary of literary terms, this introduction to literary analysis, interpretation, appreciation and theory defines the various literary genres and sub-genres and discusses representative works. The book focuses on how these works exemplify the conventions of each genre and defines all the important literary elements of plot, theme, imagery, and metaphor. Designed to introduce readers to the major literary theories and illustrate the practical application of these methods, the book provides an excellent, short introduction to literary theory, terminology, and appreciation. The author addresses all aspects of character, point of view, setting, theme, metaphor, imagery, symbolism, tone, authors' life and times and an introduction to methods of literary analysis. For individuals interested in a brief, straightforward guide to reading and understanding poetry and drama.