The Rhetoric of Sensibility in Eighteenth-Century Culture

This insightful work examines how the human body became a medium of expression in the eighteenth century, emphasizing its role in shaping modern sensibilities.

In The Rhetoric of Sensibility in Eighteenth-Century Culture, Paul Goring delves into the intriguing relationship between the human body and cultural expression during the eighteenth century. This period marked a significant shift in how the body was perceived, transforming it into an eloquent and expressive object that conveyed deeper meanings within various societal contexts. Goring's comprehensive analysis highlights the ways in which the body became a focal point for discussions surrounding politeness and modernity, influencing a range of cultural arenas such as oratory, theatre, and literature.

The book meticulously charts the endeavors of reformers and projectors who aimed to harness the body's textual potential to articulate new ideals of sensibility. Through engaging with the works of notable figures like David Garrick, James Fordyce, and Samuel Richardson, Goring illustrates the emergence of bourgeois, sentimental ideals that contrasted sharply with the classical notions of physicality. This exploration reveals how these writers and performers contributed to the evolution of physical eloquence, emphasizing the significance of the body as a medium for expressing refined values.

By providing innovative readings of contemporary fiction and manuals on acting and public speaking, The Rhetoric of Sensibility in Eighteenth-Century Culture uncovers the multifaceted ways in which the human body was employed to convey sensibility. Goring's insights shed light on the broader cultural implications of this fascination, making the book a vital contribution to the understanding of eighteenth-century cultural dynamics.