Question

The phrase l’art pour l’art (“art for art’s sake”) was first coined by:

• A. Théophile Gautier
• B. Victor Cousin
• C. Madame de Staël
• D. Walter Pater

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Victor Cousin

The origin and significance of "L'art pour l'art" (Art for Art's Sake)

• The phrase L'art pour l'art, translating to "art for art's sake," is a philosophical concept that emphasizes the intrinsic value of art, detached from any didactic, moral, or political purpose.
• This concept was notably popularized and articulated by the French philosopher Victor Cousin in his lectures on the philosophy of art, specifically in his 1818 lectures and subsequent publications.
• While Cousin is credited with coining and promoting the phrase, similar ideas about the autonomy of art had been expressed earlier by writers such as Théophile Gautier, who became a prominent proponent of the movement.
• Key characteristics associated with "art for art's sake" include:
  • Aestheticism: The belief that beauty is the ultimate aim of art and that aesthetic pleasure is its primary function.
  • Autonomy of Art: Art should not be subservient to external purposes like morality, religion, or social reform. Its value lies solely within its artistic qualities.
  • Form over Content: Emphasis is often placed on the form, style, and technique of the artwork rather than its message or subject matter.
  • Rejection of Didacticism: A strong opposition to the idea that art should teach or moralize.
• Historical Context and Movements:
  • The movement gained significant traction in the mid-19th century, particularly in France, and influenced various artistic and literary circles.
  • It became a rallying cry for writers and artists who felt constrained by the utilitarian and moralistic demands of their time.
  • Prominent figures associated with this movement, beyond Cousin, include Théophile Gautier, Charles Baudelaire, and in England, Oscar Wilde and the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, though with nuanced interpretations.
• Exam Relevance:
  • Questions about "art for art's sake" often appear in English Literature and World Literature sections of competitive exams.
  • Understanding the philosophical underpinnings and key proponents is crucial for analyzing literary works and movements influenced by this concept.
  • Be aware of the potential for questions that test the distinction between the phrase's origin and its later interpretations and widespread adoption by different artistic groups.