John Ruskin
John Ruskin (8 February 1819 – 20 January 1900) was an English writer, philosopher, and art critic of the Victorian era. He wrote on subjects as varied as geology, architecture, myth, ornithology, literature, education, botany, and political economy. His writing styles and literary forms were equally varied. Ruskin also made detailed sketches and paintings of rocks, plants, birds, landscapes, and architectural structures and ornamentation. He was hugely influential in the latter half of the 19th century and up to the First World War. After his death, his work was increasingly seen as outdated, but his ideas and concerns are still relevant to modern society, particularly his thoughts on environmentalism and sustainability.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. The Stones Of Venice
The book in question is a treatise on Venetian art and architecture, focusing on the city's Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance periods. It provides a detailed analysis of the construction and ornamentation of buildings, emphasizing the importance of craftsmanship and the moral and social implications of architectural styles. The author argues that the true value of architecture lies in its expression of the cultural and spiritual ideals of the society that produces it, and he critiques modern trends that prioritize functionality over beauty and meaning. The work is also notable for its rich descriptions of Venice's aesthetic and its influence on the Gothic Revival movement in architecture.
The 5265th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Modern Painters
"Modern Painters" is a comprehensive five-volume work of art criticism that champions the work of contemporary artists of the 19th century, particularly those who depicted nature with precision and deep reverence. The author argues against the prevailing artistic norms of the time, which favored classical and formalized approaches, and instead promotes the idea that the true purpose of painting is to represent the natural world with authenticity and emotional depth. The text delves into the aesthetics of art, the importance of imagination, and the role of the artist, while also providing detailed critiques of specific works and artists, ultimately seeking to elevate the status of modern landscape painting and redefine the standards by which art should be judged.
The 7152nd Greatest Book of All Time -
3. Unto This Last
The book in question is a collection of essays that critique the economic theories of the time, advocating for a more ethical approach to economics that emphasizes the importance of social justice and the welfare of all individuals. The author argues against the reduction of human labor to mere commodities and the prioritization of wealth accumulation over the well-being of workers. Instead, the work proposes that the true purpose of the economy should be to ensure that all people can lead dignified and fulfilling lives, with fair distribution of wealth and consideration for the moral implications of economic decisions. The essays within challenge the reader to reconsider the values that underpin society's economic systems and to strive for a more compassionate and equitable world.
The 7152nd Greatest Book of All Time -
4. The Queen Of The Air
"The Queen of the Air" is a work that delves into Greek mythology, focusing on the character of Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare. The text explores her significance and symbolism, particularly her association with the element of air, as well as her embodiment of intellectual and spiritual power. The author draws upon art, poetry, and classical literature to analyze Athena's roles and attributes, presenting her as a divine representation of both the beauty and purity of the natural world and the noblest aspects of human intellect and morality. Through this examination, the book reflects on broader themes of nature, culture, and the human condition.
The 7152nd Greatest Book of All Time
