The Rise Of Historical Criticism
Jun 2022 · DigiCat
Ebook
112
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About this ebook
In "The Rise of Historical Criticism," Oscar Wilde presents a compelling examination of the influence of historical context on literature and art. Through an elegant prose style interwoven with artistic wit, Wilde critiques the rigid conventions of his time, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of texts that acknowledges the socio-political forces shaping them. His engagement with the philosophical tenets of romanticism and the emerging modernist trajectory situates this work at a pivotal moment in literary discourse, reflecting early debates around the intersection of history and criticism in the late 19th century. Oscar Wilde, a key figure of the Aesthetic Movement, was deeply influenced by his immersion in classical literature and vibrant cultural currents of his era. His own experiences with censorship and his trials against public morality, especially regarding his famous trials in 1895, provided him unique insight into the interplay of personal identity and historical context, motivating him to challenge conventional literary interpretations through this work. This book is essential for scholars and readers intrigued by the foundations of literary criticism and its historical underpinnings. Wilde's sharp intellect and passionate engagement with enduring questions about art, truth, and the past invite readers to reevaluate their understanding of literature and its contextual influences.
About the author
Oscar Wilde, born Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde on October 16, 1854, in Dublin, Ireland, was a luminary of the aesthetic movement known for his wit, flamboyant style, and brilliant conversational skills. Apart from his well-celebrated plays, Wilde was an accomplished author who delved into various forms of writing, including essays, fiction, and poetry. His essay 'The Rise of Historical Criticism,' which showcases his intellectual depth, explores the evolution and significance of historical criticism, reflecting his belief in the importance of contextual understanding of art and literature. Wilde's literary style, characterized by its sharp wit and satirical edge, is best exemplified in his plays, such as 'The Importance of Being Earnest' and 'An Ideal Husband,' where he dissects social pretenses and the superficiality of the upper classes. His only novel, 'The Picture of Dorian Gray,' remains a classic, confronting themes of aestheticism, moral duplicity, and the pursuit of beauty. This work, along with his fairy tales and short stories, contributed richly to English literature and continue to be studied for their language, complex characters, and exploration of Victorian society. Wilde's tragic downfall, following his imprisonment for gross indecency, and his subsequent exile in France, mark a poignant end to his prolific career, but his literary legacy endures as a testament to his genius.
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