'There is nothing complacent about this book which demonstrates the kind of scholarship that a critic of long exper ience will bring to bear on an object of intense study. Luiz Costa-Lima's non European perspectives provide a much-needed and informed view on a key epoch of Western literary history.' Forum for Modern Language Studies

• Translator's note; Preface; 1. The consecration of the individual: Montaigne; 2. The subject and the law: a Kantian heritage; 3. Kafka: before the law; References; Index.