Ruiter, F.Smulders, W.H.M.Specialized histories (international relations, law)Literary theory, analysis and criticismCulturele activiteitenOverig maatschappelijk onderzoekhttp://igitur-archive.library.uu.nl/let/2011-0707-200331/UUindex.htmlnljournalArticleMaatschappij der Nederlandse letterkunde20100040-7550In recent publications on Dutch modern literature a lively debate has ensued. From a 'late-postmodern' perspective, Thomas Vaessens has challenged (amongst others) the meanwhile well established institutional approach of for instance Gilles Dorleijn. This article argues that ultimately both approaches are flawed because they refuse to take seriously the autonomous status of the literary artwork. This makes it hard to give a convincing account of the social and cultural impact of literature. For a more comprehensive explanation of the value and effect of modern literature, the marginalized notions of autonomy, subjectivity and fictionality should be seriously reconsidered.Maatschappij der Nederlandse letterkunde 2010 0040-7550 URN:NBN:NL:UI:10-1874-206085 126 63 85