Books matching: western cultural history
18 result(s)
- #1
Save:'From Dawn to Decadence: 500 Years of Western Cultural Life, 1500 to the Present' by Jacques Barzun is a comprehensive survey of Western cultural history over the past 500 years. Barzun takes the readers on a journey through time, touching on various aspects of history, arts, science, and people, weaving a captivating narrative. The book is praised for its impressive scope and depth, offering a thorough exploration of Western civilization since the time of Luther. Barzun's writing style is described as engaging and informative, making the complex subject matter easy to follow and understand.
IT TAKES ONLYa look at the numbers to see that the 20th century is coming to an end. A wider and deeper scrutiny is needed to see that in the West the culture of the last 500 years is ending at the sa... Camille Paglia's 'Sexual Personae: Art and Decadence from Nefertiti to Emily Dickinson' is a monumental work that delves into the tension between Apollonian artistry and Dionysian chaos throughout Western art and literature history. Paglia's writing style is described as provocative, dense, and heavily allusive, demanding close attention from the reader. She combines classical allusions with pop culture references and presents radical reinterpretations of cultural artifacts, challenging readers to rethink the form and meaning of art and literature.
In the beginning was nature. The background from which and against which our ideas of God were formed, nature remains the supreme moral problem. We cannot hope to understand sex and gender until we cl...- #3
Save:'The Passion of the Western Mind' by Richard Tarnas is a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of Western thought through the ages, delving into the influence of Greek philosophy, Christianity, and various philosophical movements. The book is praised for its lucid writing style that allows for a quick read despite the complex subject matter, making it an excellent starting point for anyone interested in understanding the cultural history of the West.
The author, Richard Tarnas, meticulously traces the development of Western ideas, from the early Greeks to modern times, offering a coherent narrative that sheds light on where we have come from, where we stand in the present post-modern era, and where we might be heading in the future. Despite some deviations into personal beliefs and complex concepts, readers appreciate the depth of research and the engaging storytelling that provides a profound insight into the shaping of the Western worldview.
To approach what was distinctive in a vision as complex and protean as that of the Greeks, let us begin by examining one of its most striking characteristics—a sustained, highly diversified tendency t... - #4
Save:'Occidental Mythology' by Joseph Campbell is the third volume in 'The Masks of God' series, exploring the myths and religions of the Western world, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The book delves into the evolution of Western mythology, detailing the transition from polytheistic beliefs to monotheistic religions. Campbell's writing style is described as thorough and meticulous, providing a comprehensive guide to the foundations of Judeo-Christian mythologies while drawing connections between different cultural beliefs.
(Also, see 44 recommendations for the series The Masks of God ) - #5
Save:Nick Estes' 'Our History Is the Future' delves into the history of Native American resistance against colonial incursions, focusing on the Dakota Access Pipeline protests as a moment in a long tradition of continual Native resistance. Estes, a citizen of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe, provides an exhaustive history from the breaking of treaties to the present day, highlighting the seizure of Native lands for Missouri River dams and the enduring legacies of capitalism and imperialism. The book also explores the Indigenous sense of time and how it sustains the Indian people, with a narrative that intertwines personal experiences with broader historical contexts.
Estes' writing style is praised for being thought-provoking, captivating, and insightful, providing a valuable perspective on indigenous history and challenging conventional narratives. Readers appreciate the book for its easy readability, well-researched content, and its ability to give voice to indigenous people and their struggles. The author's compassionate approach to documenting hundreds of years of Native resistance without turning it into a self-absorbed narrative is highlighted, making it a must-read for those interested in understanding the complexities of colonialism and capitalism.
To us, as caretakers of the heart of Mother Earth, falls the special responsibility of turning back the powers of destruction … Did you think the Creator would create unnecessary people in a time of s... - #6
Save:'Nefertiti' by Michelle Moran is a historical novel that tells the story of Queen Nefertiti through the perspective of her sister, Mutnodjmet. The plot follows Nefertiti's rise to power as the Queen of Egypt and Pharaoh, co-reigning with her husband Amunhotep IV. The writing style is described as flowing and descriptive, immersing the reader in the ancient Egyptian setting. blends historical facts with fictional elements to bring characters like Nefertiti and Mutnodjmet to life.
WHEN THE SUN set over Thebes, splaying its last rays over the limestone cliffs, we walked in a long procession across the sand. In a twisting line that threaded between the hills, the viziers of Upper... - #7
Save:The Road to Character by David Brooks delves into the cultural shift from humility to self-centeredness, emphasizing the importance of developing inner character over external success. Brooks contrasts resume virtues with eulogy virtues, exploring the competing natures of Adam I and Adam II and the tension between seeking recognition and embodying moral qualities. Through biographies and reflections, the book highlights the journey to building character in a society that values superficial achievements.
On Sunday evenings my local NPR station rebroadcasts old radio programs. A few years ago I was driving home and heard a program called Command Performance, which was a variety show that went out to th... - #8
Save:"Ways of Seeing" by John Berger is a thought-provoking exploration of art, visual culture, and the impact of capitalism on society. It delves into themes such as the female nude in art, the connection between capitalism and visual arts, and the essence of music in visual interpretation. Through a mix of text and black-and-white pictures, Berger presents big ideas in a concise and eloquent manner, inviting readers to reconsider their perspectives on art and the world around them.
An image is a sight which has been recreated or reproduced. It is an appearance, or a set of appearances, which has been detached from the place and time in which it first made its appearance and pres... - #9
Save:'The Covenant' by James A. Michener is a sweeping historical fiction novel that covers the history of South Africa over 500 years, starting from the early San peoples to the era of apartheid. The book follows the stories of several families - one Dutch Afrikaner, one English, and one native - providing a fictional account of the founding of South Africa through well-researched storytelling. The writing style of Michener presents the history of South Africa through different time periods with extremely interesting characters, giving readers a comprehensive introduction to the country's complex past.
While these narcotic names infected him with their sweet poison he stayed on deck and watched the moon tiptoe across the waves of an ocean he still could not comprehend, and grudgingly he admitted tha... - #10
Save:'White Tiger' in the 'Dark Heavens' series by author Kylie Chan follows Emma, a nanny from Australia, who takes care of Simone, the daughter of John Chen, one of the Chinese Gods. Set in Hong Kong, the story unfolds with Emma discovering the true nature of her employer and falling in love with him amidst tension and otherworldly attacks. combines elements of action, martial arts, love, gods, demons, family dynamics, and friendship, creating a unique and engaging storyline that draws readers in.
The writing style of the book is described as fast-paced, humorous, and filled with diverse characters with well-developed personalities and histories. The author's knowledge of Asian mythology shines through, adding depth to the story and making the characters come alive. Despite some repetitive elements and occasional editing issues, the book is praised for its compelling plot, immersive setting, and the blend of Chinese mythology and fantasy elements.
‘Emma, this is your final warning. If you do not wear a suit to my kindergarten, I will dock your pay.’ Miss Kwok glared at me over her expensive reading glasses. ‘Jeans are not acceptable at any of m...
