The Origins of Modern Critical Thought: German Aesthetic and Literary Criticism from Lessing to Hegel

This anthology compiles essential German texts on aesthetic and literary theory, providing insights into Romantic thought and its influence on modern critical perspectives.

This book, The Origins of Modern Critical Thought: German Aesthetic and Literary Criticism from Lessing to Hegel, serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the evolution of literary and aesthetic theory in Germany. Compiled as a comprehensive anthology, it encompasses pivotal texts from the era spanning from Lessing to Hegel, providing readers with a clear insight into the foundational ideas that shaped Romantic thought. The anthology not only highlights the key theoretical frameworks but also illustrates how these ideas influenced broader social and political contexts.

Originally published in 1988, The Origins of Modern Critical Thought consolidates the major works from a three-volume series published by Cambridge University Press in the mid-1980s. The selected texts are essential for anyone seeking to grasp the complexities of the Romantic period and its lasting impact on literary criticism. This volume stands out as a singular resource that brings together significant writings, making them accessible to an English-speaking audience.

This book is particularly beneficial for literary theorists, philosophers, and political scientists, as it delves into the contributions of Romantic aesthetics and their implications for subsequent theories of social organization. By presenting these texts in a cohesive manner, The Origins of Modern Critical Thought not only enriches the understanding of its readers but also serves as a critical reference point for ongoing discussions in literary and aesthetic theory.