Introducing Literature is a comprehensive introduction to the formal study of literature at senior secondary and college level. Starting from basic principles and methods, the book leads students step by step to advanced and theorised approaches to literary study. The book assumes little prior knowledge. The first chapter orients the reader to the goals of literature study, course organisation, reading lists and study tips. Later chapters offer input on responding to texts, formal analysis, essay writing, and research. Introducing Literature can be used as the primary course text, a supplementary reference, or a self-paced course for independent study.