Philosophy and Literature aims to introduce clearly and concisely not only the central philosophical questions concerning the reading and interpretation of literature, but also the possible cross-fertilisations between philosophy and literature. It explores the ways in which philosophy pursues questions relating to the nature and value of literature, while literary analyses can show how philosophy's modes of persuasion are in seeming conflict with its self-definition as the discourse of pure and untainted reason. Examples both from literature and philosophy are the main vehicles for the development of the argument. The main aspects of the field of philosophy and literature are outlined, and we see the reasons why Plato divided philosophy and literature and banished literature from his ideal state, and how Aristotle answered Plato's criticisms of literature. The philosophical characteristic of wanting to define phenomena takes us into different ways of defining literature. This book also investigates the nature of interpretation and its sources of authority, how literary forms can be read as vehicles for the development of philosophical problems, and how different philosophical forms can be analysed as using typically literary means in order to persuade readers. The question of whether it is warranted or useful to maintain the distinction between philosophy and literature is addressed. Features * The first and only introduction to philosophy and literature * Compares and contrasts philosophy and literature with illuminating examples * Clearly and engagingly written