The subject pertains to English, specifically literary analysis of beauty and art in literature. It explores how the subjective perception of beauty can be understood as a common human truth and how this concept is reflected in literary works. The analysis also touches upon the factors influencing writers and the lasting artistic merit of literature.
The question relates to the interpretation of beauty and art as explored in literature, particularly within the story 'The Artist of the Beautiful'. Various philosophers, including Immanuel Kant, have wrestled with the subjective nature of beauty and the commonalities in our aesthetic experiences. Kant proposes that beauty should be recognized subjectively but also as a common human truth.
Literary Analysis and Artistic Merit
When conducting a literary analysis, critics ask questions regarding the qualities that confer long-lasting artistic merit on literature, often referred to as 'Big L Literature'. Such qualities may go beyond simple enjoyment or the beauty of language to include the depth of human experience and insight reflected in the work.
Connection Between Art and Humanity
Connections between art, literature, and human experiences are crucial. They offer valuable insights into our collective understanding of beauty and what it means to be human. This is evident when characters within a text resonate with readers on a personal level, reflecting the shared nature of human experiences.
Influence on Writers
Writers are influenced by a multitude of factors, which may include personal experiences, societal progress, and the times they live in. For example, paintings and sculptures reflecting Classical and biblical stories were re-evaluated in the light of modernity, leading artists to seek relevance by becoming 'painters of modern life', as suggested by Charles Baudelaire.