The Artistic Foundations of Nations and Citizens: Art, Literature, and the Political Community

This book explores the relationship between politics and art and literature, discussing the relevance of the nation-state to human freedom and flourishing. It highlights works such as the Bayeux Tapestry, Shakespeare's Henry V, and Twain's Joan of Arc, and questions whether we should look beyond the nation-state to a global community or smaller forms of community.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the realm of politics, exploring its intricacies through the lens of art and literature. By examining renowned works of visual art, literature, and cultural representations of political thought across medieval, early modern, and American eras, it sheds light on the profound relevance of the nation-state to human freedom and flourishing. It also delves into the concept of citizenship and statesmanship, contrasting it with the notion of the 'global community.' The essays in this volume meticulously trace the shifting notions of key political concepts such as citizenship, republicanism, and nationalism from antiquity to the present, providing a comprehensive understanding of their evolving histories through Western art and literature.

Highlights of this volume include the analysis of iconic works such as the Bayeux Tapestry, Shakespeare's Henry V, Henry VI, and A Midsummer Night's Dream, Twain's Joan of Arc and Hermann's Nichts als Gespenster, among numerous other canonical works of political interest. Furthermore, the book raises thought-provoking questions about whether we should seek a trans-national, global community to pursue the human freedom desired by progressives, or whether we should focus on smaller forms of community reminiscent of the polis to foster the friendship and nobility valued by the ancients.

This volume is an invaluable resource for students and teachers of political science, particularly political theory and philosophy, visual arts, and world literature. It offers a rich and nuanced perspective on the complex interplay between politics and the arts, enriching our understanding of both fields and fostering critical thinking and dialogue.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367703059