Engine of Modernity: The Omnibus and Urban Culture in Nineteenth-Century Paris

The omnibus was a horse-drawn vehicle of urban transport that revolutionized social practices in nineteenth-century Paris, leading to a cultural shift in how people thought about the city, its social life, and its artistic representations. It was a metaphor through which writers and artists explored evolving social dynamics of class and gender, meditated on the meaning of progress and change, and reflected on their own literary and artistic practices.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2021
Publisher: Manchester University Press

The omnibus, a horse-drawn urban transport vehicle, played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural landscape of nineteenth-century Paris. In his insightful work, Engine of modernity delves into the intricate relationship between public transportation and popular culture, with a particular focus on the omnibus. This remarkable vehicle not only revolutionized social practices but also sparked a fundamental cultural shift in how Parisians perceived their city, its social life, and its artistic representations.

The arrival of the omnibus on the streets of Paris and in the pages of popular literature served as a catalyst for this transformative cultural shift. The omnibus, with its capacity to accommodate a diverse range of passengers, created a unique space where individuals from different backgrounds came into contact and engaged in meaningful interactions. This proximity facilitated the exchange of ideas, perspectives, and experiences, leading to a greater understanding and appreciation of diversity.

Moreover, the omnibus became a metaphor through which writers and artists explored evolving social dynamics of class and gender. They meditated on the meaning of progress and change, questioning the societal norms and expectations that had prevailed for centuries. The omnibus's ability to navigate through the streets of Paris, symbolizing the movement and fluidity of society, provided a fertile ground for these artistic explorations.

Furthermore, the omnibus influenced the literary and artistic practices of its time. Writers and artists used the omnibus as a subject matter, drawing inspiration from its daily operations and the experiences of its passengers. They depicted the omnibus as a symbol of modernity, progress, and the urbanization of society, reflecting the changing landscape of Paris and the broader world.

In conclusion, Engine of modernity offers a captivating exploration of the connection between public transportation and popular culture in nineteenth-century Paris. Through its focus on the omnibus, the work sheds light on the transformative power of this vehicle in shaping social practices, cultural perceptions, and artistic expressions. The omnibus not only revolutionized urban transportation but also played a vital role in fostering a sense of community, promoting diversity, and inspiring artistic creativity. Its legacy continues to resonate in the modern world, reminding us of the importance of public transportation in shaping our cities and our collective cultural identity.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526160218