"In 1827, Goethe proclaimed that a new phase in literary history, world literature, had begun. A century and a half later, world literature remains a problematic concept for both the literary theorist and the educator, and this timely collection of fifteen essays by scholars such as Sarah Lawall and Marilyn Gaddis Rose helps to map the theoretical and practical issues it raises. Contributors to the volume offer fresh perspectives on these debates, addressing issues such as literary canons, anthologies, translation, language, and pedagogical concerns, as well as introducing unfamiliar traditions and genres and offering readings of new or neglected texts. These essays will inspire an informed reconsideration of world literature and its important place in the contemporary curriculum."-- from the jacket of the book--