2004-01-31 Accessible introduction to an expanding area

Utopian studies is one of the fastest-growing fields of contemporary critical analysis, and Levitas has established herself as one of the leading commentators. Although some of the activities and texts associated with utopianism have been around for centuries, the field of study is quite new and is still plagued with the definitional conflicts and crossed purposes so common in any new area. In this context, an accessible introduction for people new to the field is a real necessity, and Levitas fills the space very well. This is an accessible book, despite the relative difficulty of the subject-matter. Levitas provides commentaries on theorists associated with utopianism. In addition, she uses the book to make important points about the boundaries and methodologies of utopian studies. This makes the book an important contribution to the field as well as an excellent introduction, and ensures that there is plenty here for established utopian scholars as well as for newcomers.