Ancient Cultures of Conceit

<p>The campus novel is one of the best loved forms of fiction in the post-war period. But what are its characteristic themes? What are its prejudices? And what does it take for granted?</p><p>Originally published in 1990 this is the first study to connect literary historical and sociological aspects of modern British universities. It shows that the culture celebrated in British university fiction represents a particular view of humane education which has its origins in the values of Oxbridge. Threats are seen to come from the ‘redbrick’ and ‘new’ universities from proletarians scientists (including sociologists) women and foreigners.</p><p>This exhilarating book makes a nonsense of sociology’s reputation for turgid and plodding analysis. Sharp-witted shrewd and penetrating it will be of interest to students of sociology literature and for the same wide audience that appears to have an insatiable appetite for stories about university life.</p>