These selected essays, ranging from a Bakhtinian study of John Skelton (d. 1529) to a sympathetic critique of Raymond Williams (d.1988), explore a variety of relations between literature and politics, from the appropriation of the radical John Milton to the continuing significance of Robert Tressell. They deploy a range of critical methods, while reflecting shifts in political and intellectual concerns over recent decades Together, they offer a considered contribution to an ongoing debate. Praise for Sharratt’s previous work: .. an absolutely important first-rate book -Terry Eagleton .. fascinating, entertaining, . . very impressive-David Lodge .. the most richly-packed book by an English critic in recent years-Nicholas Tredell .. astonishing, powerful, playful, brilliantly clever and attractive-Fred Inglis