Unfelt: The Language of Affect in the British Enlightenment

Unfelt explores the British Enlightenment's understanding of sensibility by examining the insensible, which are intense emotions that become apparent over time. It charts the development of these idioms from early in the long eighteenth century to their culmination in the age of sensibility, expanding the scope of affect in the period's writing and thought.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 282 pages
Publication date: 02 January 2024
Publisher: Cornell University Press

Unfelt offers a fresh perspective on the emotions experienced during the British Enlightenment, revealing that the passions and sentiments commonly associated with this era are actually rooted in a profound insensibility. What initially appears as mere preoccupations gradually reveal themselves as the emergence of pronounced emotions that only become apparent over time.

In his comprehensive exploration, James Noggle delves into a diverse array of affects, including primary sensation, love, self-love, greed, happiness, and patriotic ardor. Through a meticulous examination of literary evocations of imperceptibility and unfeeling that permeate and inform the understanding of sensibility during this period, Noggle sheds light on the evolution of these idioms from the early eighteenth century to their peak in the age of sensibility.

Spanning four distinct sections—philosophy, the novel, historiography, and political economy—Unfelt charts the progression of these expressions from their early origins to their culmination in the era of sensibility. Noggle's analysis encompasses a wide range of authors, from influential figures such as Locke, Eliza Haywood, Henry Fielding, and Frances Burney to lesser-known figures like Dudley North and Hume, as well as Adam Smith. By delving into the insensible, Noggle broadens the scope of affect in the writings and thoughts of the period, encompassing a diverse array of perspectives and voices.

Drawing inspiration from contemporary affect theory, Noggle maps the intricate interplay between feeling and unfeeling, identifying the most elusive and powerful emotional dynamics: the potential, the incipient, the emergent, and the virtual. Through his meticulous analysis, Noggle offers a profound understanding of the complexities of emotion during the British Enlightenment, challenging traditional narratives and revealing the hidden depths of human experience.

Unfelt is a groundbreaking work that not only expands our understanding of the period but also contributes to the broader field of affect studies. It is a testament to Noggle's scholarly expertise and his ability to bring historical insights to life in a way that is both accessible and engaging. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the complexities of emotion and its role in shaping our understanding of the world.

Weight: 438g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501770128