Where does literature stand in the new cultural structure?  This book delves into the aesthetic, historical, and narrative dimensions of literature as well as the art of literary criticism. It is divided into three parts. 

Part 1: "Literature: Aesthetic and Historical Perspectives" 

This section delves into literature's aesthetic and historical qualities. Literature's ability to evoke powerful aesthetic experiences is undoubtedly a key factor that distinguishes it from disciplines like philosophy, history, economics, and sociology. But these aesthetic experiences go beyond the immediate emotional response elicited by a work of art. They can shape our understanding of history, which comprises a diverse array of perspectives and ideas.  Through engaging in a 'productive dialogue' with our preconceived notions of the past, literature enriches our comprehension of history. 

Part 2: "Classical and Modern: Narrative and Virtual Space” 

Compared to the elegance and introspective nature of classical literature, contemporary audiences often gravitate towards narratives that offer excitement, suspense, and unexpected twists. Modern narratology has also moved far beyond the theoretical boundaries of structuralism and become more open to diverse interpretive approaches. The rise of modern technology and its deep integration with contemporary narratives presents a unique challenge for literature. The Internet, for instance, is fostering a multitude of new narrative forms, forcing literature to adapt and evolve in the virtual space.

Part 3: "Interpretation: Openness and Boundaries"

The exploration of openness and boundaries lies at the heart of modern hermeneutics. Literary criticism is a specialized branch of interpretation that delves into the historical context of literature. This section primarily focuses on literary criticism and explores the debate on the openness and boundaries of interpretation. This debate is central because how we interpret a literary work shapes our understanding of its essence.