A dictionary of narratology /

Prince helped "invent" narratology, which studies the nature, form, and functioning of narrative in various media. It is natural, therefore, that he should have produced a dictionary of terms, described as the "first book of its kind." It is designed mainly for the specialist anxious to understand other specialists (which suggests something about the semantic state of narratology), although others are also expected to benefit from it. The nonspecialist should be warned, however, that, while some definitions appear to be contradictions in terms ("nonnarrated narrative," for example), others are extremely difficult to follow. For example, the author notes as part of his explanation of the term "narratized discourse" that it is "a discourse about words uttered (or thoughts) equivalent to a discourse not about words." Fortunately, he has, to some extent, anticipated this problem by providing examples to illustrate meanings. The dictionary takes the form of a straight alphabetical listing with numerous cross-references. The list does not purport to be complete; neither are the explanations of terms comprehensive. Instead, the compiler has opted for an "overview" in the belief that a dictionary of this type can only be a point of departure. Although highly specialized, the compilation will make a valuable addition to college and university reference departments. It includes an extremely useful bibliography for those interested in exploring the field of narratology further. -J. A. Wiseman, Trent University