Is English literature dying - and does it matter?

Harold Bloom's "The Invention of the Human" is a work of literary criticism that explores the concept of the human in literature. Bloom argues that the human is a literary construct, shaped by the works of literature that we read. The book is known for its insightful analysis of literature, its exploration of the relationship between literature and the human condition, and its influence on subsequent literary criticism. It's considered a significant work of literary theory and a key text in Bloom's body of work. Its influence on subsequent literary and cultural studies is undeniable.

Elizabeth Eisenstein's "The Printing Press as an Agent of Change" is a seminal work that explores the transformative impact of the printing press on various aspects of society, including science, religion, and culture.

In this book, Neil Postman argues that the contemporary world is more akin to Aldous Huxley's 'Brave New World' than George Orwell's '1984'. Postman contends that television's emphasis on entertainment has led to a decline in rational discourse and the trivialization of politics, education, and religion. He contrasts the print-based culture of the 19th century with the televisual culture of the 20th century, highlighting how the medium of television inherently promotes incoherence and triviality, turning serious information into a form of entertainment.

The novel follows Emma Woodhouse, a beautiful, clever, and rich young woman who has lived nearly twenty-one years with very little distress. Emma decides to take up matchmaking, despite the advice of her friend Mr. Knightley. Her attempts to match her new friend Harriet Smith with various men lead to complications and ultimately test her own detachment from the world of romance. The novel explores themes of education, courtship, and social class in Georgian-Regency England, highlighting Emma's journey of self-discovery and learning from her mistakes.