This book explores the history of the idea of genius from its origins in classical antiquity to its deconstruction in postmodernist criticism. Focusing mainly on the creative arts; the book examines certain key points in the development of the idea; and also addresses the problem of what constitutes genius in specific subject areas. Experts in different fields have contributed chapters on literature; art; music; mathematics; philosophy and psychiatry to produce a volume which illuminates an abiding obsession throughout the history of European culture. The contributors to this volume show how the ancient image of the inspired poet and the Renaissance conception of the divino artista both anticipate later notions of genius; developed into the 18th century around the central figures of Homer; Shakespeare and Goethe. Romantic definitions of genius are analysed; as are the implications of Nietzsche's pronouncements on 'human greatness'. The historic conjunction of genius and madness is explored from the early belief in divine possession through the Renaissance notion of melancholy to the age of psychoanalysis.
#1501292 in Books Clarion Books 2002-11-25 2002-11-25Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.50 x .62 x 8.50l; 1.60 #File Name: 0618147853144 pagesGreat product!
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Excellent presentation.By AJI just received the book today; so I have not yet read the book. But I did leaf through it and was happy to find quite a number of historical photographs that I had never seen before (and I have a large collection of books about Liberia.) There was one photograph of Monrovia "taken from a distance" in 1986. The caption said partially that Monrovia "looked like a peaceful; thriving city." I was very pleased to see that photograph. I was there in 1986 and it was mostly peaceful and thriving then. Although I took many pictures up country where I lived; photography was discouraged in Monrovia; and I took very few photographs there because I did not want to take the chance that my camera would be confiscated. The people and the county of Liberia are beautiful and my heart has been broken by what they have suffered since I left there in 1988. When I look now at the photographs taken since then and the destruction of the city; I am heartsick. I am hopeful that they will be able to come together to heal and rebuild their lives and their county.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. This Our Dark CountryBy Hans FrankfortA beautiful modern history of the African American settlers just freed from slavery and try to improve their lives in a country they founded on the west coast of Africa; highly recommended for African Americans who should have a complete understanding of their past besides slavery. African Americans founded three settlements in Africa: Monrovia; Liberia; Freetown; Sierra Leone; and Libreville; Gabon.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Great ResourceBy Phantom23663Our family began to research our African Heritage. This book includes a wealth of information regarding how and why salvery ended and what it was like for the "Americo Liberian" settlers. This is a must read for anyone with Liberian Heritage.
