Romantic Egypt: Abyssal Ground of British Romanticism

The Romantic Egypt: Abyssal Ground of British Romanticism explores the historical, cultural, and intellectual connections between Ancient Egypt and Romantic-period Britain and Germany, highlighting the influences of European thought, politics, and interventions like Napoleon's 1799 Egyptian Campaign. It argues that the balance between knowledge and mystery, deciphering and imagining a golden-age Egypt, was essential to the development of the Romantic imaginary, as Western philosophy and art originated in the lost wisdom of Ancient Egypt.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 260 pages
\n Publication date: 07 April 2021
\n Publisher: Lexington Books
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Romantic Egypt: The Abyssal Ground of British Romanticism delves into the intricate web of historical, cultural, and intellectual connections between Ancient Egypt and the Romantic-era Britain and Germany. It explores the profound influences exerted by European thought, politics, and interventions, such as Napoleon's 1799 Egyptian Campaign, on the understanding and perception of Egypt during this period. Prior to Napoleon's expedition, Egypt had been largely shrouded in mystical explanations, perpetuating myths and misconceptions about its past, achievements, beliefs, and cultural significance. However, the newfound scientific knowledge gained through his expedition challenged the allure of a more mythologically-imbued ancient past in the Romantic imagination. Romantic Egypt contends that this delicate balance between knowledge and ignorance, between deciphering and imagining a golden-age Egypt, between enlightened thought and mysticism, played a crucial role in shaping the Romantic imaginary. For the Romantics, the wisdom of Ancient Egypt was considered the birthplace of Western philosophy and art, a source of inspiration that transcended the limitations of contemporary society.

The historical connections between Ancient Egypt and Romantic-period Britain and Germany are explored, highlighting the exchange of ideas, artistic influences, and scholarly pursuits. The Romantics were captivated by the exoticism and mystique of Egypt, drawing inspiration from its ancient monuments, ruins, and cultural traditions. They sought to revive the spirit of the past and imbue their works with a sense of awe, wonder, and longing for a bygone era. The influence of European thought on the Romantic perception of Egypt is examined, including the impact of Enlightenment ideas, the rise of historical criticism, and the romanticization of ancient cultures. The Napoleonic Campaign, in particular, played a significant role in shaping the Romantic view of Egypt, as it provided firsthand access to the country's monuments and ruins and facilitated the scientific study of Egyptian culture. The Romantics' fascination with Egypt extended beyond its historical significance, as they saw it as a symbol of the exotic, the mysterious, and the untamed. They idealized Egypt as a place of ancient wisdom, where the ancient gods and goddesses still ruled and where the human spirit could connect with the divine. This romanticized vision of Egypt influenced not only literature and art but also popular culture, with Egyptian-themed costumes, music, and dance becoming increasingly popular in the 19th century. Romantic Egypt also explores the complexities of the Romantic relationship with Egypt. While the Romantics were drawn to the country's ancient culture and history, they were also aware of its colonial past and the exploitation of its people. This tension between admiration and criticism is reflected in the works of Romantic authors and artists, who often depicted Egypt as a land of both beauty and oppression. Despite these complexities, Romantic Egypt argues that the Romantic fascination with Egypt was a powerful and enduring force that shaped the development of British Romanticism and had a lasting impact on Western culture. The book provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex relationship between Ancient Egypt and the Romantic imagination, shedding light on the ways in which the Romantics sought to connect with the past and create a new sense of identity and purpose in the 19th century.

\n Weight: 581g\n
Dimension: 229 x 163 x 26 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781793635679\n \n