Tuesday, February 5, 2019
Biography of John Ruskin:
John Ruskin (1819–1900) was a prominent English writer, art critic, social thinker, and philanthropist of the Victorian era. He made significant contributions to the fields of art criticism, literature, and social theory.
Here is a brief biography of John Ruskin:
Early Life and Education of John Ruskin:
John Ruskin was born on February 8, 1819, in London, England. His father, John James Ruskin, was a successful sherry importer, and his mother, Margaret Cox Ruskin, was a devout evangelical and a writer.
Ruskin showed an early interest in art and nature, and he developed a passion for drawing and painting at a young age.
He attended Christ Church, Oxford, where he studied a range of subjects, including classics, mathematics, and poetry. His experiences at Oxford had a profound influence on his later views on education and society.
Art Critic and Writer:
Ruskin gained fame as a critic with the publication of the first volume of "Modern Painters" in 1843. The work praised the art of J.M.W. Turner and argued against the prevailing aesthetic principles of the time.
Over the years, Ruskin continued to publish additional volumes of "Modern Painters," exploring various aspects of art, architecture, and society. His writings had a profound impact on the art world and influenced the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and the Arts and Crafts Movement.
John Ruskin's Works:
In addition to "Modern Painters," Ruskin wrote extensively on a variety of topics. Some of his notable works include "The Seven Lamps of Architecture," "The Stones of Venice," and "Unto This Last."
Ruskin's writings often extended beyond art criticism to address broader social and economic issues. "Unto This Last" contains his thoughts on political economy and social justice.
Social and Political Ideas:
Ruskin was deeply concerned with the social issues of his time. He advocated for social reform, fair labor practices, and the improvement of living conditions for the working class.
His ideas on political economy, as expressed in "Unto This Last," had a significant influence on the development of the British Labor Party and the broader socialist movement.
Later Life and Legacy of John Ruskin:
Ruskin's later life was marked by periods of mental and physical health challenges. Despite these struggles, he continued to write and lecture.
In his later years, he became increasingly focused on social and environmental issues, including concerns about industrialization and the impact of technology on society.
John Ruskin passed away on January 20, 1900, in Brantwood, Coniston, England.
Legacy:
Ruskin's ideas and writings continue to be studied and appreciated in the fields of art history, literature, and social theory.
His influence on the Arts and Crafts Movement and the ideas of figures like William Morris and Mahatma Gandhi are notable aspects of his legacy.
The Guild of St George, an organization founded by Ruskin, aimed at promoting his ideals, still exists today.
John Ruskin's diverse contributions to art, literature, and social thought left an enduring impact on Victorian culture and continue to be studied and discussed in the present day.