*Uses of Literature * bridges the gap between literary theory and common-sense beliefs about why we read literature.

*Uses of Literature * bridges the gap between literary theory and common-sense beliefs about why we read literature.

• Explores the diverse motives and mysteries of why we read

• Offers four different ways of thinking about why we read literature - for recognition, enchantment, knowledge, and shock

• Argues for a new "phenomenology" in literary studies that incorporates the historical and social dimensions of reading

• Includes examples of literature from a wide range of national literary traditions