This Strange Idea of the Beautiful

François Jullien explores the concept of beauty and challenges the Western notion established by Greek philosophy, revealing how it has influenced European languages and spread to cultures with different aesthetic foundations through globalization. He highlights the obscuring of traditional Chinese beauty in translation to Western languages.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 14 October 2022
Publisher: Seagull Books London Ltd

An exploration of the profound significance of the concept of beauty,François Jullien delves into the intricate tapestry of ideas from both Eastern and Western philosophical traditions. By challenging the underlying assumptions that shape our understanding of what is considered beautiful,Jullien presents a fresh perspective on the art world. He argues that the Western concept of beauty, deeply rooted in Greek philosophy, has permeated the very fabric of European languages, influencing our ways of thinking about beauty. This concept, closely tied to language, often goes unnoticed or unquestioned in discussions of Western aesthetics. However, Jullien's analysis extends beyond the Western sphere, revealing how Western ideals of beauty have even spread to cultures with distinct aesthetic foundations, often without questioning or recognizing the cultural assumptions embedded within them.

In his examination of the translation of Chinese texts into Western languages,Jullien highlights how the traditional Chinese reluctance to isolate or abstract beauty is often obscured in translation. This process aims to make the works more accessible to Western readers, but it inadvertently distorts the essence of beauty. Through an engaging dialogue between Chinese and Western ideas,Jullien reassesses the core of beauty, unveiling its multifaceted and culturally-specific nature.

In conclusion,François Jullien's exploration of beauty offers a thought-provoking journey that challenges our preconceived notions and encourages us to perceive art in a new light. By blending ideas from Eastern and Western philosophy,Jullien provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the multifaceted nature of beauty and its cultural implications. His work encourages us to appreciate the beauty found in diverse traditions and to engage in a respectful dialogue that fosters cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 222 x 121 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803090573