Title
Compulsive Beauty (October Books),Used
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In Compulsive Beauty, Foster reads surrealism from its other, darker side: as an art given over to the uncanny, to the compulsion to repeat and the drive toward death.Surrealism has long been seen as its founder, Andr Breton, wanted it to be seen: as a movement of love and liberation. In Compulsive Beauty, Foster reads surrealism from its other, darker side: as an art given over to the uncanny, to the compulsion to repeat and the drive toward death. To this end Foster first restages the difficult encounter of surrealism with Freudian psychoanalysis, then redefines the crucial categories of surrealismthe marvelous, convulsive beauty, objective chancein terms of the Freudian uncanny, or the return of familar things made strange by repression. Next, with the art of Giorgio de Chirico, Max Ernst, and Alberto Giacometti in mind, Foster develops a theory of the surrealist image as a working over of a primal fantasy. This leads him finally to propose as a summa of surrealism a body of work often shunted to its margins: the dolls of Hans Bellmer, so many traumatic tableaux that point to difficult connections not only between sadism and masochism butal so between surrealism and fascism. At this point Compulsive Beauty turns to the social dimension of the surrealist uncanny. First Foster reads the surrealist repertoire of automatons and mannequins as a reflection on the uncanny processes of mechanization and commodification. Then he considers the surrealist use of outmoded images as an attempt to work through the historical repression effected by these same processes. In a brief conclusion he discusses the fate of surrealism today in a world become surrealistic. Compulsive Beauty not only offers a deconstructive reading of surrealism, long neglected by AngloAmerican art history, but also participates in a postmodern reconsideration of modernism, the dominant accounts of which have obscured its involvements in desire and trauma, capitalist shock and technological development.
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- Q: What is the page count of Compulsive Beauty? A: Compulsive Beauty has three hundred thirty-eight pages. This extensive length allows for an in-depth exploration of surrealism and its darker aspects.
- Q: What is the binding type of Compulsive Beauty? A: Compulsive Beauty is available in paperback binding. This makes it lightweight and easy to handle for readers.
- Q: What are the dimensions of Compulsive Beauty? A: The dimensions of Compulsive Beauty are nine point zero two inches in length, seven point zero five inches in width, and zero point eight seven inches in height. These dimensions make it a portable book.
- Q: Who is the author of Compulsive Beauty? A: The author of Compulsive Beauty is Hal Foster. He is known for his critical writings on art and culture.
- Q: What genre does Compulsive Beauty fall under? A: Compulsive Beauty falls under the genre of criticism. It specifically critiques surrealism and its historical context.
- Q: How do I approach reading Compulsive Beauty? A: To approach reading Compulsive Beauty, consider having a background in art history or psychoanalysis. The book delves into complex themes and theories.
- Q: Is Compulsive Beauty suitable for beginners in art criticism? A: Compulsive Beauty may not be suitable for beginners. Its dense theoretical content may require prior knowledge of surrealism and psychoanalysis.
- Q: What themes are explored in Compulsive Beauty? A: Compulsive Beauty explores themes such as the uncanny, the compulsion to repeat, and the relationship between surrealism and fascism. It provides a unique perspective on art.
- Q: How should I store Compulsive Beauty to keep it in good condition? A: To keep Compulsive Beauty in good condition, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This helps preserve the book's quality over time.
- Q: Can Compulsive Beauty be cleaned if it gets dirty? A: Yes, if Compulsive Beauty gets dirty, gently wipe the cover with a dry cloth. Avoid using liquids that may damage the pages.
- Q: What if Compulsive Beauty arrives damaged? A: If Compulsive Beauty arrives damaged, contact the retailer for a return or exchange. Most retailers have policies in place for damaged goods.
- Q: Is there a warranty for Compulsive Beauty? A: No, Compulsive Beauty does not come with a warranty. However, check the retailer's return policy for any guarantees.
- Q: How does Compulsive Beauty compare to other art criticism books? A: Compulsive Beauty offers a unique approach to art criticism by focusing on the darker aspects of surrealism, distinguishing it from other mainstream art criticism books.
- Q: Is Compulsive Beauty suitable for academic study? A: Yes, Compulsive Beauty is suitable for academic study. Its critical analysis and thorough research make it a valuable resource for art history courses.
- Q: What makes Compulsive Beauty a significant read? A: Compulsive Beauty is significant because it redefines surrealism through a psychoanalytic lens, providing insights into its social dimensions and historical context.