Refiguring Mimesis: Representation in Early Modern Literature

Focusing squarely on the strength of mimesis as a philosophical idea, this collection of essays considers aspects of mimesis ranging from Shakespeare to colonialism. As the philosophical agenda of major thinkers and writers responds to representational crises like post-structuralism and postmodernism, attention is turning away from artistic expressivity and back towards uses of mimesis. The nine included essays present a varied set of theoretical ideas and challenge the ingrained concept that mimesis is only a transparent reflection of reality. This fresh assessment of an ancient and much-cited practice brings new attention to the ways in which the early modern period made use of such representation.