Reading Media Theory : Thinkers, Approaches, Contexts

Reading Media Theorywill assist you in developing close-reading and analytical skills, and is the only text that acts both as a reader and (crucially) a ‘how to read' handbook for media theory. Core theory coverage and readings for media studies help to encourage the student to familiarise themselves with the material so that they are more fully prepared for critically evaluating it. Carefully constructed progressive pedagogical apparatus is used to educate the student, step-by step, in critical reading so that they can progressively improve upon their skills. Annotations regarding context, content, structure and writing style are used to enliven and apply the theory whilst making it more memorable for future reference. Opening chapters: ‘What is theory?' and ‘What is reading?' bring alive the importance of both as key parts of media scholarship. The text is split into four sections: Reading theory, Key thinkers and schools, Approaches, and Media Theory in context; this allows the student to develop their skills gradually whilst exploring theory and putting it into context Pre-reading: substantial Introductory sections set each text and its author in context and show the relevance of the reading to contemporary culture. Post-reading: Reflection sections summarise each reading's key points and suggests further areas for the student to explore and think about, thus encouraging wider reading and independent study