Author: Foster, Arnold W.

Publication Year: 1978

Media Type: Report

Summary:

Abstract:

The contexts of Marxist aesthetic thought are 1) Socialist Realism, 2) the Dialectic of History, and 3) the paired themes of utopia and alienation. Major issues have risen from the theory and center on 1) the autonomy of art, 2) the freedom of the artist, 3) the effectiveness of art in a world of alienated people, and 4) the criteria for the judgement of the worth of art. The issues are not easily solved within the Marxist framework and explanations have depended on a sort of pluralism, either of personalities, of functions of art, even of societies. None of the answers given have been satisfactory to Marxist writers, but their dialogue has helped to clarify issues which are shared by all scholars who are attempting to understand the relationship(s) of art and society. (Abstract to the article)

Arts & Intersections:

Categories: Community Development