This Norton Critical Edition is based on Hans Gabler's acclaimed text and is accompanied by his introduction and textual notes. John Paul Riquelme provides detailed explanatory annotations. ''Backgrounds and Contexts'' is thematically organised to provide readers with a clear picture of the novel's historical, cultural and literary inspirations. Topics include ''Political Nationalism: Irish History, 1[zasłonięte]798-19,'' ''The Irish Literary and Cultural Revival,'' ''Religion,'' and ''Aesthetic Backgrounds.'' ''Criticism'' begins with John Paul Riquelme's helpful essay on the novel's structural form and follows with twelve diverse interpretations by, among others, Kenneth Burke, Umberto Eco, Hugh Kenner, Maud Ellmann, Joseph Valente and Marian Eide. A Selected Bibliography is also included.