Abstract

This thesis explores the existence of an identified author in relation to a text and how this identity and recognition thereof affects the way the work is perceived in the realm of literary criticism and by the law. The study covers how modern literary critics, such as Foucault and Barthes, viewed the author in relation to his work, and what role this bestowed on the reader/audience of the work. It also sheds light on theories about the identity of the "original" author of such monumental works as the Iliad and Odyssey, Shakespeare's plays, and T.S. Eliot's Wasteland. Lastly, the study delves into what steps laws of different nations have taken to define creation which can be identified as "original" and what works merit to be protected by copyright, and how such laws have affected the author and his/her work.

School

School of Humanities and Social Sciences

Department

English & Comparative Literature Department

Degree Name

MA in English & Comparative Literature

Date of Award

2-1-2006

Online Submission Date

1-1-2005

First Advisor

Ferial Ghazoul

Committee Member 1

Ferial Ghazoul

Committee Member 2

William Melaney

Committee Member 3

Gian Balsamo

Document Type

Thesis

Extent

45 leaves

Library of Congress Subject Heading 1

Intellectual property.

Library of Congress Subject Heading 2

Copying processes

Rights

The American University in Cairo grants authors of theses and dissertations a maximum embargo period of two years from the date of submission, upon request. After the embargo elapses, these documents are made available publicly. If you are the author of this thesis or dissertation, and would like to request an exceptional extension of the embargo period, please write to thesisadmin@aucegypt.edu

Call Number

Thesis 2005/78

Location

mgfth

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