One of Wildeâs first published pieces, âThe Rise of Historical Criticismâ is an essay, written while he was a student at Oxford, during the 1870s. In it, he dissects the notions of historical and literary criticism.
His belief that criticism is a form of revolt and, with an associated action, can engender revolution and promote democracy, has been the subject of debate between academics for years. In addition, Wilde finds a platform on which to discuss the purpose of true Art.
Often funny and eternally fascinating, âThe Rise of Historical Criticismâ is a crucial read for any fans of the acid-tongued author.
Oscar Wilde (1854 â 1900) was an Irish novelist, poet, playwright, and wit. He was an advocate of the Aesthetic movement, which extolled the virtues of art for the sake of art. During his career, Wilde wrote nine plays, including âThe Importance of Being Earnest,â âLady Windermereâs Fan,â and âA Woman of No Importance,â many of which are still performed today. His only novel, âThe Picture of Dorian Grayâ was adapted for the silver screen, in the film, âDorian Gray,â starring Ben Barnes and Colin Firth. In addition, Wilde wrote 43 poems, and seven essays. His life was the subject of a film, starring Stephen Fry.