First published in 1972, this book provides a helpful overview of the grotesque and its use in a number of literary genres including novels, drama and poetry.

This book will be a useful resource for those studying literary theory and literary works which include an element of the grotesque.

General Editor's Preface; Acknowledgements; 1. Introduction 2. The Term and Concept 'Grotesque': A Historical Summary 3. Towards a Definition 4. The Grotesque and Related Terms and Modes 5. Functions and Purposes of the Grotesque; Select Bibliography; Index