| Author |
Wilde, Oscar, 1854-1900 |
| Title |
Intentions
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| Note |
Reading ease score: 65.5 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.
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| Contents |
The decay of lying -- Pen, pencil, and poison -- The critic as artist: with some remarks upon the importance of doing nothing -- The critic as artist: with some remarks upon the importance of discussing everything -- The truth of masks.
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| Credits |
Transcribed from the 1913 Methuen and Co edition by David Price
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| Summary |
"Intentions" by Oscar Wilde is a collection of essays written in the late 19th century that delves into themes of art, morality, and aesthetics. The opening piece, "The Decay of Lying," is structured as a dialogue between two characters, Cyril and Vivian, who engage in a witty and philosophical examination of the nature of lying in art and literature. Wilde’s exploration indicates a belief in the transformative and essential role of art in society, while suggesting that modern realism diminishes creativity and beauty. The opening of "Intentions" presents a lively discussion between Cyril, who urges appreciation for nature, and Vivian, who dismisses it in favor of the comforts and creativity found indoors. Vivian argues that the decline of lying as an art form has led to the uninspired nature of contemporary literature, contending that art should reflect imagination rather than the mundane realities of life. Through sharp and humorous exchanges, Wilde sets the stage for a deeper critique of the societal values surrounding truth and beauty, ultimately championing the importance of artistic imagination over factual representation. This sets a thought-provoking tone for the essays that follow, inviting readers to reconsider their own understanding of art and its relationship with lies. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
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| Language |
English |
| LoC Class |
PR: Language and Literatures: English literature
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| Subject |
Authors, English -- 19th century -- Biography
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| Subject |
Authorship
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| Subject |
English drama
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| Subject |
Authors, English -- 19th century -- Drama
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| Subject |
Art critics -- Great Britain -- Biography
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| Subject |
Wainewright, Thomas Griffiths, 1794-1847
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| Subject |
Poisoners -- Great Britain -- Biography
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| Category |
Text |
| EBook-No. |
887 |
| Release Date |
Apr 1, 1997 |
| Most Recently Updated |
Oct 26, 2014 |
| Copyright Status |
Public domain in the USA. |
| Downloads |
950 downloads in the last 30 days. |
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