Arnold Studies: The Past Two Decades and Looking into the Future

Abstract

Compiled in conjunction with the bicentennial celebration of Arnold’s birth. Reviews more than 80 books, articles, and notes published in the past twenty years. The number and variety of scholarly works discussed counters the frequent comment that Arnold scholarship is on the decline. Summarizes significant contributions to Arnold scholarship and traces trends in Arnold studies. Acknowledges that Arnold helped “prepare the way for pluralism and globalization,” but asserts that he is still “the most elusive of the major Victorian writers” and, in looking to the future, asserts that Arnold is a model of critical thinking whose work will continue to provide insights.