The Signifying Monkey A Theory of African-American Literary Criticism by Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

Content Description:  According to the back of the book, Henry Louis Gates, Jr.'s original groundbreaking study explores the relationship between the African and African-American vernacular traditions and black literature, elaborating a new critical approach located within this tradition that allows the black voice to speak for itself.

Examining the ancient poetry and myths found in African, Latin American, and Caribbean culture, and particularly the Yoruba trickster figure of Esu-Elegbara and the Signifying Monkey whose myths help articulate the black tradition's theory of its literature, Gates uncovers a unique system of interpretation and a powerful vernacular tradition that black slaves brought with them to the New World. 

Book was published in1989 and is a paperback 

Condition Description:  Book is in good condition with no underlining, highlighting, or writing in margins.  Book has a Preface, Contents which are divided into two parts, Notes and an Index.  There are some black & white pictures and charts. 

Publisher:  Oxford University Press paperback

Number of Pages:  290

Dimensions: 9 1/4" x 5 1/8" x 5/8"

Country of Manufacture: USA