Volcanic: Vesuvius in the Age of Revolutions

In the age of Romanticism, Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples had a colorful, diverse history. Herculaneum and Pompeii were excavated in 1738, revealing its full extent. John Brewer charts the changing seismic and social dynamics of the mountain, and the meanings attached by travelers to their sublime confrontation with nature.

Format: Hardback
Length: 544 pages
Publication date: 24 October 2023
Publisher: Yale University Press

Vesuvius, a captivating and diverse historical entity, holds a profound significance in the age of Romanticism. While its infamous eruption in 79 CE is widely recognized, it was during the Enlightenment era in 1738 that the true magnitude of Vesuvius was unearthed through the excavations of Herculaneum and Pompeii. This period marked a remarkable era of scientific exploration and revolutionary fervor, where Vesuvius emerged as a focal point of intense emotions and political aspirations. It became an object of geological curiosity, inspiring awe and fascination, and a powerful symbol of the Romantic obsession with nature.

In his insightful work, John Brewer delves into the intricate seismic and social dynamics of Vesuvius, exploring the changing meanings attributed to its awe-inspiring presence by travelers. The pyrotechnics of revolution and global warfare, with their dramatic displays of volcanic activity, made Vesuvius an ideal political metaphor, fueling both revolutionary enthusiasm and conservative trepidation. From Swiss mercenaries to English entrepreneurs, French geologists to local Neapolitan guides, German painters to Scottish doctors, a diverse array of individuals found themselves captivated by Vesuvius, their passions, interests, and aims as diverse as their origins.

Vesuvius, with its simmering lava and teeming human presence, embodied the clash between civilization and nature, a theme that resonated deeply with the Romantic movement. The volcano's power and unpredictability captured the imagination of artists, writers, and philosophers, who sought to explore the relationship between man and the natural world. The ruins of Herculaneum and Pompeii, preserved as a testament to the catastrophic eruption, became a pilgrimage site for enthusiasts seeking to connect with the past and contemplate the mysteries of the universe.

Vesuvius's legacy extends beyond its historical significance. It serves as a reminder of the destructive power of nature and the importance of human resilience in the face of adversity. The excavations of Herculaneum and Pompeii have provided valuable insights into ancient Roman society, culture, and technology, shedding light on the lives and achievements of the people who lived in the shadow of Vesuvius.

In conclusion, Vesuvius, with its vibrant and diverse history, holds a special place in the age of Romanticism. Its eruption in 79 CE and the subsequent excavations have revealed its full extent, captivating the world with its awe-inspiring power and inspiring a deep fascination with nature. John Brewer's work explores the seismic and social dynamics of Vesuvius, shedding light on the changing meanings attributed to it by travelers from diverse backgrounds. The volcano's legacy continues to resonate, reminding us of the delicate balance between civilization and nature and the enduring power of human resilience in the face of adversity.

Weight: 882g
Dimension: 240 x 163 x 44 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300272666