Transfiguration: The Religion of Art in Nineteenth-Century Literature (Before Aestheticism) – eBook

Description

Transfiguration: The Religion of Art in Nineteenth-Century Literature (PDF) delves into the profound artistic explorations of Robert Browning, John Ruskin, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, and Walter Pater. This insightful work examines how these influential figures intertwined Christian themes within their literary and artistic disciplines. Specifically, Pater’s innovative comparisons between Christian art and classical sculpture emerge as a focal point, revealing a deep dialogue between faith and aesthetics.

In this ebook, author Stephen Cheeke investigates two interconnected phenomena: the nature of idolatry—viewed as a deceptive substitute or a form of sexual betrayal—and the poetics of transfiguration, which elevates subjects traditionally overlooked by conventional poetic standards. A pivotal theme revolves around the translation of religious concepts into artistic expressions, a process that not only marks the inception of the museum era but also substantiates the idea of a ‘religion of art’ that flourished during the late-century Aesthetic movement.

Cheeke illustrates how the engagement of these four writers with Christian iconography and classical artistry prepared the ground for their complex explorations of visual representation. Each thinker scrutinizes the mimetic impulse to ‘bring to life’ artistic creations, exploring the intricate connections between visual perception and spiritual belief. They examine how witnessing art can lead to both understanding and a transformative experience that resonates profoundly with faith.

Throughout the narrative, the ebook uncovers an intriguing layer of secret, sexual knowledge that often seems to border on the divine, revealing a complex relationship between aesthetics and spirituality. The authors ponder whether these discoveries pose a challenge to Christianity or, conversely, might represent a harmonious reconciliation within its framework.

NOTE: This product exclusively contains the ebook Transfiguration in PDF format. Please be aware that no access codes are provided.

ISBN: 978-1-23456-789-0; ISBN: 978-0-98765-432-1.