Abstract

Economic analysis offers a powerful tool for analyzing fictional works. In turn, fiction can vividly illustrate the truths of economics. As others have recognized, literature can help introduce students to economic ideas in a non-mathematical way. Yet current empirical research consists primarily of interpreting literary passages deliberately chosen to illustrate particular economic concepts. I suggest that, by adopting the literary community's methodology of dissecting entire works and by analyzing novels considered great for reasons unrelated to economics, economists can reach an even wider audience. Here, I use three classic novels - Lolita, A Bend in the River, and The House of Mirth - to illuminate concepts in game theory, dynamic modeling and Schumpeterian competition, and optimization within informal markets.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.