Question

Arnold is considered a pioneer of:

• A. Aestheticism
• B. Cultural criticism
• C. Existentialism
• D. Symbolism

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Cultural criticism

Matthew Arnold is widely considered a pioneer of cultural criticism, particularly due to his influential work "Culture and Anarchy" where he extensively explored the concept of "culture" as a means to combat social ills and promote a higher standard of thought and behavior in society; essentially establishing a framework for analyzing culture within a social context. 

Key points about Arnold's contribution to cultural criticism:

• Broad definition of culture:

  Arnold viewed culture not just as art or literature, but as a holistic concept encompassing intellectual pursuits, morality, and social values. 

• Critique of contemporary society:

  He criticized the social classes of his time, labeling them as "Barbarians" (aristocracy), "Philistines" (middle class), and "Populace" for their lack of cultural awareness. 

• "The Function of Criticism":

  In his essay "The Function of Criticism at the Present Time," Arnold argued that criticism should play a vital role in society by disseminating "the best that is known and thought in the world".