This work investigates the evolution of literary criticism from the mid-18th century to the mid-20th century. René Wellek, a distinguished scholar, provides a comprehensive overview of the nature of literary scholarship, taste, and thought during this pivotal period. The book traces the development of critical theory from Neoclassicism through various subsequent movements, examining the intellectual currents that shaped how literature was understood and evaluated.

This seminal work is regarded as a foundational text in the study of literary criticism. Scholars and students alike have relied on its thorough examination of the historical trajectory of critical thought. The book's comprehensive scope and detailed analysis make it an indispensable resource for understanding the evolution of literary theory.