Title
Blessings in Disguise: or, the Morality of Evil,Used
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In the literature and aesthetic theory of modern times, we have witnessed the revival of the claim that the conventions and artifices of civilization are the source of many ills. Far from establishing harmonious relationships between individuals, they have sometimes legitimized forms of violence and oppression. But while conventions and artifices may be a source of evil, they are also a means by which evils can be reduced or overcome.One of our greatest living critics, Jean Starobinski pursues this line of reflection by taking us back to the thought of the eighteenth century. Civilization, he argues, has always been entangled with barbarism. As a form of politeness, a refinement of manners, civilization was said to legitimize deceit. But aren't the conventions of civilized living, however objectionable, a blessing in disguise? It is the task of art, he contends, to make the most of these conventions, to use the very disguises of civilization to counter the barbarism they mask. Tracing this idea through seventeenth and eighteenthcentury French literature, Starobinski charts the historical and intellectual limits of criticism itself.These reflections are nourished by a series of sensitive and perceptive studies: the use of the word 'civilization' in the Age of Enlightenment; the classical doctrine of civility and the art of flattery; fable and mythology in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries; the relations between exile, satire, and tyranny in Montesquieu; philosophy and style in the writings of Voltaire; and the search for the remedy in the disease in the thought of Rousseau.A development and refinement of themes that have preoccupied Starobinski throughout his career, Blessings in Disguise is criticism at its best, testing its own limits and extending ours.
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Warranty
We provide a 2-year limited warranty, from the date of purchase for all our products.
If you believe you have received a defective product, or are experiencing any problems with your product, please contact us.
This warranty strictly does not cover damages that arose from negligence, misuse, wear and tear, or not in accordance with product instructions (dropping the product, etc.).
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What is the main theme of 'Blessings in Disguise: or, the Morality of Evil'? A: The main theme of the book revolves around the idea that the conventions of civilization can lead to both violence and oppression, yet they also provide a means to counteract these evils through art and criticism.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of 'Blessings in Disguise' is Jean Starobinski, a prominent literary critic known for his insights into civilization and barbarism.
- Q: What type of book is 'Blessings in Disguise'? A: 'Blessings in Disguise' is categorized under Criticism & Theory, focusing on literary and aesthetic theory.
- Q: How many pages does this book have? A: The book contains a total of 243 pages.
- Q: What is the condition of the book? A: This is a used book in good condition, classified as 'Very Good'.
- Q: What edition of the book is available? A: This listing is for the first edition of 'Blessings in Disguise', published on January 1, 1993.
- Q: Does the book discuss any historical figures? A: Yes, the book discusses several historical figures, including Voltaire and Rousseau, in relation to the themes of civilization and criticism.
- Q: Is the book available in hardcover? A: Yes, 'Blessings in Disguise' is available in hardcover binding.
- Q: What insights does Jean Starobinski provide in this book? A: Jean Starobinski provides insights into the relationship between civilization and barbarism, exploring how art can utilize the conventions of civilization to address underlying societal issues.
- Q: Can this book be used for academic purposes? A: Yes, 'Blessings in Disguise' is suitable for academic study, particularly in fields related to literary criticism and aesthetic theory.