Concentrating on scholarship over the past four decades, this multidisciplinary approach to representation considers conceptual issues about representation and applies different theories to various arts. Following an introduction that traces the historical debates surrounding the concept of representation, Part One focuses on representation and language, epistemology, politics and history, sacrificial rites, possible world and postmodernism. Part Two applies current theories to painting, photography, literature, music, dance, and film. Writings highlight the vital role representation plays in the formation and appreciation of major genres of art.

This work will appeal to art philosophy and aesthetics scholars and to cultural studies and linguistic scholars. Rather than advocate certain theories, the essays illustrate the inherent complexities of representation.

ANANTA CH. SUKLA is Professor of English at Sambalpur University. He is founding editor of the Journal of Comparative Literature and Aesthetics and founding secretary of Vishwanatha Kaviraja Institute of Comparative Literature and Aesthetics. His publications include The Concept of Imitation in Greek and Indian Aesthetics, Contemporary Indian Aesthetics and numerous other articles on aspects of comparative literature and theory in journals and anthologies.