Contemporary Revolutions: Turning Back to the Future in 21st-Century Literature and Art

Contemporary Revolutions explores how 21st-century writers, artists, and performers re-engage the arts of the past to reimagine a present and future encompassing revolutionary commitments to justice and freedom, examining literature and arts of Africa, Europe, the Middle East, the Pacific Islands, and the United States.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Contemporary Revolutions delves into the revival of the original meaning of the term "revolution," as explored by 21st-century writers, artists, and performers. By re-engaging with the arts of the past, these individuals seek to reimagine a present and future that upholds revolutionary ideals of justice and freedom. The essays in this collection examine the literature and arts from various regions, including Africa, Europe, the Middle East, the Pacific Islands, and the United States. They address the histories of colonialism, slavery, genocide, civil war, and gender and class inequalities, shedding light on the ongoing struggles for equality and social justice.

A diverse range of contemporary writers and artists are considered in this collection. These include fabric artist Ellen Bell, poets Selena Tusitala Marsh and Antje Krog, Syrian artists of the civil war and Sana Yazigis creative memory web site about the war, street artist Bahia Shehab, theatre installation artist William Kentridge, and the reinterpretations of Virginia Woolf by multi-media artist Kabe Wilson, novelist W. G. Sebald, and the contemporary trans movement.

Through their creative endeavors, these individuals challenge traditional narratives and offer alternative perspectives on history, culture, and identity. They inspire us to reflect on the past and use it as a catalyst for positive change in the present and future. Contemporary Revolutions serves as a testament to the power of the arts to shape our understanding of the world and drive social transformation.

Weight: 396g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350160231