Nationalism and Cosmopolitanism in Avant-Garde and Modernism: The Impact of World War I

The cultural and artistic consequences of post-WWI nationalism in Europe are explored in this edited collection, which focuses on how modernism and the avant-garde responded to the geographic changes in Central and Eastern Europe, the Baltic States, and Scandinavia. The contributors explore the clashes between the national, transnational, and cosmopolitan as they played out in diverse artistic genres, encouraging scholars to rethink the methodological tools used to understand the complexity and multiplicity of avant-garde forms in twentieth-century Europe.

Format: Hardback
Length: 321 pages
Publication date: 19 September 2022
Publisher: Karolinum,Nakladatelstvi Univerzity Karlovy,Czech Republic

The impact of World War I on Europe was profound, not only in terms of the physical changes to the continent but also in terms of its cultural and artistic landscape. The aftermath of the war saw the birth of numerous new independent states, each with its own unique identity and perspective. This period of upheaval and transformation was reflected in the arts, with artists exploring new ways to express their national and cultural identities.

One of the most significant ways in which the war impacted the arts was through the development of modernism and the avant-garde. Artists in Europe were seeking to break away from the traditional forms and techniques of the past and to experiment with new and innovative ways of creating art. This period saw the rise of abstract art, cubism, and surrealism, among other styles, as artists sought to capture the essence of the modern world in their work.

Another important aspect of the post-WWI cultural landscape was the struggle for national independence. In many countries across Europe, artists were using their work to promote the cause of national liberation and to raise awareness of the injustices and inequalities that existed under colonialism and imperialism. This period saw the emergence of political art, with artists using their work to express their political beliefs and to advocate for social change.

The impact of the war on Europe's cultural and artistic landscape was far-reaching and enduring. It helped to shape the course of modern art and to promote a greater understanding of the complex and diverse identities of the continent. Today, the legacy of World War I can be seen in the art and culture of Europe, with its rich and complex history continuing to inspire and influence artists and scholars alike.

In conclusion, the impact of World War I on Europe's cultural and artistic landscape was profound and far-reaching. The war saw the birth of new independent states, the development of modernism and the avant-garde, and the struggle for national independence. These factors helped to shape the course of modern art and to promote a greater understanding of the complex and diverse identities of the continent. Today, the legacy of World War I can be seen in the art and culture of Europe, with its rich and complex history continuing to inspire and influence artists and scholars alike.

Dimension: 235 x 165 x 48 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788024651217