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: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2024
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 worldviews and actions of individuals during this period of immense change.

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 and contributing to its emergence as a global player.

Furthermore, Hearn demonstrates the significant impact that Australian fin de siècle lives had on the transnational and global movements of the era. He explores the turbulent nature of the fin de siècle imagination in Australia and its response to these dynamic forces, showcasing the ways in which individuals and communities adapted and transformed in the face of rapid change.

Through his meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Mark Hearn offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the fin de siècle, providing a valuable contribution to the field of history and cultural studies. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of a transformative era and the individuals who shaped its course.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350291423