The Fin de Siecle Imagination in Australia, 1890-1914

This book explores the fin de siècle, a period of global movements and transition, in Australia and beyond through biographical microhistories. It examines the struggles and aspirations of fin de siècle lives, respect for women and indigenous peoples, injustices, and the ways they imagined a better world. It asserts that the fin de siècle was significant for the making of modern Australia and demonstrates the impact Australian fin de siècle lives had on the transnational and global movements of the era.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This captivating book delves into the fascinating fin de siècle, a period characterized by powerful global movements and a turbulent transition, both in Australia and beyond. Through a series of captivating biographical microhistories, author Mark Hearn explores the diverse transnational identities, philosophies, ideas, and cultures that defined this era. From the pioneering feminist Rose Summerfield and the working-class radical John Dwyer to the indigenous rights advocate David Unaipon and the poet Christopher Brennan, Hearn traces the interconnected journeys of these individuals, shedding light on their philosophical beliefs, social activism, and artistic contributions.

In his examination of fin de siècle lives, Hearn delves into the struggles and aspirations of these individuals, exploring themes such as respect for the rights of women and indigenous peoples, the injustices and hardships inflicted on working men and women, and their visions for a better world. He explores the transformative power of fin de siècle ideas, examining how they shaped the world and influenced the transnational and global movements of the time.

The book also takes a deep dive into the distinctive characteristics of the "great acceleration of economic, technological, and cultural forces" that swept the globe at the turn of the 19th century. Within an Australian context, Hearn highlights the ways in which these forces impacted society, economy, and culture, shaping the nation's development. He demonstrates the significant role that Australian fin de siècle lives played in the transnational and global movements of the era, showcasing their impact on the world stage.

Through his meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Hearn paints a vivid picture of the turbulent nature of the fin de siècle imagination in Australia and its response to these dynamic forces. He explores the ways in which individuals and communities responded to the challenges and opportunities of the time, shaping the course of history and leaving a lasting legacy.

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in history, social movements, and the complexities of the human experience. It offers a unique perspective on the fin de siècle, providing a deeper understanding of the era's challenges and achievements, and its enduring impact on the world.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350291393