Introduces four essays on psychoanalysis and the teaching of literature that appear in this issue of "College English" and discusses in general how the psychoanalytic phenomenon of resistance applies to the teaching and comprehension of a piece of literature. (JC)

Discusses three dominant ways in which language is understood within English studies: structuralism, dialogic discourse, and journals. Shows how each approach produces a different awareness of student texts. Demonstrates how different language theories entail unique interpretive strategies that either promote or disable particular understandings…

Introduces three essays--in the second of two issues of College English devoted to psychoanalysis and literature--on psychoanalytic theory, literature, and the roles of teachers in helping students situate themselves in relation to knowledge and in breaking through students' resistance as they read. (JC)