Author: Matthew Arnold, a prominent Victorian poet and critic.
Title: "Culture and Anarchy"
Time Period: Late 19th century, during a period of significant social and political change.
Purpose: To argue for a restructuring of England's social ideology.
Key Themes
Victorian Society: The book reflects the social and political changes of the Victorian era, influenced by the Industrial Revolution and the rise of the middle class.
Cultural Critique: Arnold critiques the societal values and structures, aiming to improve them.
Ideals of Culture and Education: Emphasizes harmonious cultivation of skills and talents beyond formal education.
Arnold's Arguments
Reconstruction of Social Ideology:
Advocates for a society embracing culture and idealism to withstand the era's challenges.
Focuses on developing a conscientious individual striving for human perfection.
Education System:
Proposes a state-administered education system over a rigid church-based system.
Emphasizes moral conduct, free thinking, and community devotion.
Morality and Society:
Stresses the importance of morality in societal development.
Promotes exemplary culture and free education for societal improvement.
Reception and Legacy
Dover Wilson's View: Describes "Culture and Anarchy" as a masterpiece of prose and a significant work in literature, poetry, religion, and education defense.
Impact: Seen as a defense of poetry and a profound religious text, highlighting the importance of education in society.
Character Analysis
Analytic Persona: Arnold uses characters to convey ideas, similar to Socratic methods.
Social Classes in "Culture and Anarchy"
Aristocracy (Barbarians):
Described as distant and disengaged from society.
Arnold criticizes their lack of societal involvement.
Middle Class (Philistines):
Criticized for materialism and self-centeredness.
Seen as lacking in religious and societal development.
Considered responsible for many societal issues.
Lower Class (Populace):
Viewed as neglected and exploited by higher classes.
Arnold sees potential for cultural development and societal improvement within this class.
Conclusion
Arnold's work is a call for cultural advancement and societal unity through education and moral development, targeting all societal classes for a balanced society.