Lectures on Dramatic Art and Literature By: August Wilhelm Schlegel (1767-1845)
Lectures on Dramatic Art and Literature by August Wilhelm Schlegel is a profound and enlightening exploration of the dramatic arts and their significance in literature. With a formidable reputation as a scholar, Schlegel's lectures provide a unique insight into the intricacies of dramatic theory and its application in the realm of literature. In this book, Schlegel engages readers in a comprehensive analysis of the various components of dramatic art, including its historical development, its relationship with other art forms, and its ability to convey universal truths. He skillfully weaves together elements of philosophy, history, and aesthetics to present a comprehensive understanding of the importance of drama as a literary genre. One of the noteworthy aspects of Schlegel's lectures is his profound knowledge and erudition. His deep understanding of classical works and their impact on theater and literature is evident throughout the book. By delving into the works of Greek, Roman, and Renaissance playwrights, Schlegel brings forth historical contexts that shed light on the evolution of dramatic art. Moreover, he skillfully connects these classical influences to contemporary literature, further emphasizing the timeless relevance of dramatic expression. This book is not limited to theoretical discussions alone; Schlegel backs his arguments with numerous examples from renowned works of literature. By drawing from Shakespearean plays, German Romantic dramas, and French tragedies, he provides readers with a rich tapestry of illustration that brings his ideas to life. Schlegel's clear and lucid writing style makes this weighty volume accessible to both scholars and general readers. Although some passages may require careful attention, the overall tone remains engaging and inviting. Furthermore, his emphasis on the emotional and psychological aspect of drama adds a vibrant layer to the discourse, allowing readers to connect on a personal level with the subject matter. While Lectures on Dramatic Art and Literature may seem daunting at first glance, it offers a rewarding intellectual journey for those who are willing to embark upon it. The book's multidisciplinary approach and its ability to seamlessly integrate history, philosophy, and literature make it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the study of drama. In conclusion, Schlegel's Lectures on Dramatic Art and Literature is a testament to his brilliance and expertise in the subject matter. By synthesizing various intellectual domains, he provides a comprehensive understanding of dramatic art's far-reaching impact and its vital role within the larger tapestry of literature. This book is a must-read for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike who seek to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of the dramatic arts. First Page: "Were I to pray for a taste which should stand me in stead under every variety of circumstances, and be a source of happiness and cheerfulness to me during life, and a shield against its ills, however things might go amiss and the world frown upon me, it would he a taste for reading.... Give a man this taste, and the means of gratifying it, and you can hardly fail of making him a happy man; unless, indeed, you put into his hands a most perverse selection of Books. You place him in contact with the best society in every period of history, with the wisest, the wittiest, the tenderest, the bravest, and the purest characters who have adorned humanity. You make him a denizen of all nations, a contemporary of all ages. The world has been created for him." SIR JOHN HERSCHEL. Address on the opening of the Eton Library , 1833. LECTURES ON DRAMATIC ART AND LITERATURE BY AUGUST WILHELM SCHLEGEL. CONTENTS. Preface of the Translator. Author's Preface. Memoir of the Life of Augustus William Schlegel. LECTURE I. Introduction Spirit of True Criticism Difference of Taste between the Ancients and Moderns Classical and Romantic Poetry and Art Division of Dramatic Literature; the Ancients, their Imitators, and the Romantic Poets. LECTURE II. Definition of the Drama View of the Theatres of all Nations Theatrical Effect Importance of the Stage Principal Species of the Drama... Continue reading book >>

Lectures on Dramatic Art and Literature By: August Wilhelm Schlegel (1767-1845)

Lectures on Dramatic Art and Literature by August Wilhelm Schlegel is a profound and enlightening exploration of the dramatic arts and their significance in literature. With a formidable reputation as a scholar, Schlegel's lectures provide a unique insight into the intricacies of dramatic theory and its application in the realm of literature.

In this book, Schlegel engages readers in a comprehensive analysis of the various components of dramatic art, including its historical development, its relationship with other art forms, and its ability to convey universal truths. He skillfully weaves together elements of philosophy, history, and aesthetics to present a comprehensive understanding of the importance of drama as a literary genre.

One of the noteworthy aspects of Schlegel's lectures is his profound knowledge and erudition. His deep understanding of classical works and their impact on theater and literature is evident throughout the book. By delving into the works of Greek, Roman, and Renaissance playwrights, Schlegel brings forth historical contexts that shed light on the evolution of dramatic art. Moreover, he skillfully connects these classical influences to contemporary literature, further emphasizing the timeless relevance of dramatic expression.

This book is not limited to theoretical discussions alone; Schlegel backs his arguments with numerous examples from renowned works of literature. By drawing from Shakespearean plays, German Romantic dramas, and French tragedies, he provides readers with a rich tapestry of illustration that brings his ideas to life.

Schlegel's clear and lucid writing style makes this weighty volume accessible to both scholars and general readers. Although some passages may require careful attention, the overall tone remains engaging and inviting. Furthermore, his emphasis on the emotional and psychological aspect of drama adds a vibrant layer to the discourse, allowing readers to connect on a personal level with the subject matter.

While Lectures on Dramatic Art and Literature may seem daunting at first glance, it offers a rewarding intellectual journey for those who are willing to embark upon it. The book's multidisciplinary approach and its ability to seamlessly integrate history, philosophy, and literature make it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the study of drama.

In conclusion, Schlegel's Lectures on Dramatic Art and Literature is a testament to his brilliance and expertise in the subject matter. By synthesizing various intellectual domains, he provides a comprehensive understanding of dramatic art's far-reaching impact and its vital role within the larger tapestry of literature. This book is a must-read for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike who seek to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of the dramatic arts.

First Page:

"Were I to pray for a taste which should stand me in stead under every variety of circumstances, and be a source of happiness and cheerfulness to me during life, and a shield against its ills, however things might go amiss and the world frown upon me, it would he a taste for reading.... Give a man this taste, and the means of gratifying it, and you can hardly fail of making him a happy man; unless, indeed, you put into his hands a most perverse selection of Books. You place him in contact with the best society in every period of history, with the wisest, the wittiest, the tenderest, the bravest, and the purest characters who have adorned humanity. You make him a denizen of all nations, a contemporary of all ages. The world has been created for him." SIR JOHN HERSCHEL. Address on the opening of the Eton Library , 1833.

LECTURES ON DRAMATIC ART AND LITERATURE

BY AUGUST WILHELM SCHLEGEL.

CONTENTS.

Preface of the Translator.

Author's Preface.

Memoir of the Life of Augustus William Schlegel.

LECTURE I.

Introduction Spirit of True Criticism Difference of Taste between the Ancients and Moderns Classical and Romantic Poetry and Art Division of Dramatic Literature; the Ancients, their Imitators, and the Romantic Poets.

LECTURE II.

Definition of the Drama View of the Theatres of all Nations Theatrical Effect Importance of the Stage Principal Species of the Drama... Continue reading book >>

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