Why theory?

<p>Edward Tomarken's previous book <i>Filmspeak</i> was a study of literary theory in relation to contemporary mainstream films. Some of the abstruse ideas of early literary theorists (1950-70) had in fact permeated our thinking to such an extent that both films and theories enriched and shed light upon one another. One early response to <i>Filmspeak </i>was the question 'Why theory?' a remark that provides the title of this new and exciting exploration of literature.<br><br>In pursuit of an answer Tomarken turns to the 'second generation' of critics (1970-2000) and analyses television programmes as well as films. He considers scholars such as Clifford Geertz and Martha Nussbaum who saw themselves as working in the field of cultural studies. <i>Why theory? </i>thus has a dual focus - on both culture and literary theory. The result of integrating cultural ideas with media interpretation sees Tomarken grapple with the question of the title: theory has become a part of our cultural life.</p>