Title
Theory of Colours (Mit Press),New
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By closely following Goethe's explanations of the color phenomena, the reader may become so divorced from the wavelength theoryGoethe never even mentions itthat he may begin to think about color theory relatively unhampered by prejudice, ancient or modern.By the time Goethe's Theory of Colours appeared in 1810, the wavelength theory of light and color had been firmly established. To Goethe, the theory was the result of mistaking an incidental result for an elemental principle. Far from pretending to a knowledge of physics, he insisted that such knowledge was an actual hindrance to understanding. He based his conclusions exclusively upon exhaustive personal observation of the phenomena of color.Of his own theory, Goethe was supremely confident: From the philosopher, we believe we merit thanks for having traced the phenomena of colours to their first sources, to the circumstances under which they appear and are, and beyond which no further explanation respecting them is possible.Goethe's scientific conclusions have, of course, long since been thoroughly demolished, but the intelligent reader of today may enjoy this work on quite different grounds: for the beauty and sweep of his conjectures regarding the connection between color and philosophical ideas; for an insight into early nineteenthcentury beliefs and modes of thought; and for the flavor of life in Europe just after the American and French Revolutions.The book does not have to be studied to be appreciated. Goethe's subjective theory of colors permits him to speak most persuasively of color harmony and aesthetics. In some readers these notions will evoke a positive response on their merits. Others may regard them as pure fantasy, but savor the grace and style of their exposition.The work may also be read as an accurate guide to the study of color phenomena. Goethe's conclusions have been repudiated, but no one quarrels with his reporting of the facts to be observed. With simple objectsvessels, prisms, lenses, and the likethe reader will be led through a demonstration course not only in subjectively produced colors, but also in the observable physical phenomena of color. By closely following Goethe's explanations of the color phenomena, the reader may become so divorced from the wavelength theoryGoethe never even mentions itthat he may begin to think about color theory relatively unhampered by prejudice, ancient or modern.
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We provide a 2-year limited warranty, from the date of purchase for all our products.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What is the main focus of Goethe's Theory of Colours? A: Goethe's Theory of Colours primarily focuses on color phenomena as experienced subjectively, challenging the wavelength theory of light. It emphasizes personal observation and philosophical insights regarding color rather than scientific explanations.
- Q: Who is the author of Theory of Colours and when was it published? A: The author of Theory of Colours is Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, and it was published on March 15, 1970.
- Q: What is the significance of Goethe's approach to color? A: Goethe's approach to color is significant because it offers a subjective interpretation that connects color with philosophical ideas, providing historical insights into 19th-century thought and the aesthetics of color harmony.
- Q: How many pages are in the Theory of Colours? A: The Theory of Colours contains 423 pages.
- Q: What type of binding does the Theory of Colours have? A: The Theory of Colours is available in paperback binding.
- Q: Is the Theory of Colours suitable for beginners in color theory? A: Yes, the Theory of Colours is suitable for beginners as it can be appreciated without intensive study, allowing readers to explore color concepts through Goethe's accessible writing.
- Q: What can readers expect to learn from Goethe's observations in the book? A: Readers can expect to learn about the subjective experiences of color, the observable phenomena associated with color, and the historical context of color theory during Goethe's time.
- Q: Does Goethe support the wavelength theory of light? A: No, Goethe does not support the wavelength theory of light; he critiques it and bases his conclusions on personal observations instead.
- Q: What makes this book relevant today? A: The book remains relevant today for its exploration of color philosophy, its historical perspective, and its influence on aesthetics, appealing to those interested in art, design, and color theory.
- Q: Is there any scientific validity to Goethe's conclusions on color? A: While Goethe's conclusions have been largely repudiated in scientific terms, the work is valued for its qualitative insights and the beauty of its prose rather than empirical accuracy.