Philanthropic Celebrity in the Age of Sensibility: A Historical-Comparative Study of the British, French, and Polish Examples, c. 1770-1830

This book explores the first moment in history when philanthropy was used as a self-standing claim to fame and philanthropists started being considered as a distinct breed of public figures. It examines how public images of early philanthropists in different parts of Europe were shaped in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, arguing that famous philanthropists ushered in a new genre of fame, 'philanthropic celebrity,' that placed Enlightenment ideals about virtue within the framework of early celebrity culture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 274 pages
Publication date: 29 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating volume delves into the fascinating realm of philanthropy, seamlessly blending biography, cultural history, and media studies to explore a pivotal moment in history when philanthropy emerged as a distinct claim to fame. Its insightful inquiry seeks to unravel the root causes behind this remarkable transformation, shedding light on how public perceptions of early philanthropists across different regions of Europe were shaped during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. Through a comparative analysis, the work juxtaposes the lives and legacies of three remarkable figures: John Howard, a pioneering prison reformer in Britain; Jean-Frédéric Oberlin, a compassionate pastor and humanitarian from Alsace; and Stanisław Staszic, a prominent figure in Enlightenment politics in Congress Poland. By unveiling shared mechanisms at play in these diverse national contexts, the book compellingly argues that renowned philanthropists ushered in a novel genre of fame, known as "philanthropic celebrity," which seamlessly integrated Enlightenment ideals of virtue within the framework of early celebrity culture.

This captivating volume is primarily designed to engage advanced students and scholars in the fields of history, cultural studies, and social sciences, particularly those with a keen interest in the concepts of fame and celebrity, as well as the origins of modern humanitarianism. It offers a rich and comprehensive exploration of the historical, social, and cultural factors that shaped the emergence of philanthropy as a prominent pursuit, providing valuable insights into the complex interplay between public perception, societal values, and the pursuit of social change.

With its engaging narrative, interdisciplinary approach, and extensive scholarship, this book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the fascinating world of philanthropy and its profound impact on society.

Weight: 680g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032373874