transfiguration the religion of art in nineteenth century literature before aestheticism pdf kdpw

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"Transfiguration: The Religion of Art in Nineteenth-Century Literature Before Aestheticism" explores the evolution of artistic expression and its spiritual dimensions in the 19th century, a period marked by a profound transformation in cultural values and artistic practices. Before the emergence of Aestheticism, which emphasized "art for art's sake," many writers and thinkers perceived art as a vehicle for moral and philosophical ideals, elevating it to a quasi-religious status. This transfiguration reflects a longing for deeper meaning and transcendence amid the rapid industrialization and societal changes of the time. Authors such as John Ruskin and Matthew Arnold championed the notion that art should aspire to higher truths, bridging the gap between beauty and ethics. They argued that the aesthetic experience could inspire moral development and foster a sense of community, serving as a counterbalance to the era's materialism. This perspective highlighted the transformative power of art, viewing it as a means to uplift the human spirit and cultivate a shared cultural consciousness. The discussion includes various literary movements, including Romanticism, which celebrated individual emotion and the sublime, and Pre-Raphaelitism, which sought to return to a purer, more genuine artistic expression. Overall, "Transfiguration" encapsulates the intricate interplay between art, morality, and spirituality in 19th-century literature, setting the stage for the later Aesthetic movement, which would ultimately redefine the relationship between art and its role in society, shifting the focus from moral imperatives to personal experience and the intrinsic value of beauty. This examination underscores the complexities of artistic intention and the diverse philosophical currents that shaped literary discourse during this pivotal era, inviting readers to reflect on the enduring significance of art in the quest for meaning and transcendence in human experience.