The Routledge Companion to Literature and Cognitive Studies offers a comprehensive survey of cognitive approaches to literature, introducing the influential theoretical tools and latest developments in this vigorously multi-disciplinary field, by leading scholars illuminating the cognitive, affective, and bodily dimensions of literary reading. Comprising three main sections, this Companion oversees the history of the field, core issues and topics, and the vital new debates of cognitive theory. This volume introduces readers to the many new tools and methodologies in the field, including:

• the context of the first generation of cognitive literary studies

• mental representations and information-processing paradigms

• critical debates and developments, including cognitive cultural studies, 4E cognition and literature, as well as empirical investigations of cognitive processes

• approaches to a variety of literary genres and media.

This comprehensive companion provides an important reference work for upper-level students and researchers delving into the interdisciplinary approaches to literature and cognitive studies.