THL1501 Assignment 2 Due 13 September 2024 (Detailed Answers)
34 views 1 purchase
Course
Introduction to Theory of Literature
Institution
University Of South Africa
Book
Theory of Literature
Question 1: In her book, Basic Issues in Aesthetics (1998), cited in the Study Guide,
Marcia Eaton discusses the difficulties with defining the terms “beauty” and
“aesthetics.” Referring to this excerpt, in an essay of 500-800 words, argue that it is
possible for these terms to be use...
THL1501 Assignment 2 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) Semester 2 2024 (162579) - DUE 13 September 2024
THL1501 Assignment 2 Semester 2 2024 | Due 12 September 2024
THL1501 Assignment 2 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) Semester 2 2024 (162579) - DUE 13 September 2024
All for this textbook (19)
Written for
University of South Africa
Introduction to Theory of Literature
All documents for this subject (13)
Seller
Follow
GeniusGears
Reviews received
Content preview
THL1501
Assignment 2
Semester 2
Unique No:162579
DUE 13 September 2024
, Question 1: Arguing for Objective Definitions of "Beauty" and "Aesthetics"
The terms "beauty" and "aesthetics" have long been subjects of debate within
philosophical circles, as they en compass complex and often subjective experiences.
Marcia Eaton, in her book Basic Issues in Aesthetics (1998), discusses the inherent
difficulties in defining these terms. Despite the challenges Eaton outlines, it is
possible to argue that both "beauty" an d "aesthetics" can be defined objectively.
Eaton acknowledges the difficulties in defining "beauty" due to its subjective nature.
People often have different perceptions of what is beautiful, influenced by cultural,
historical, and personal factors. For instance, a piece of music that one person finds
beautiful might be perceived as noise by another. This subjectivity leads some to
argue that beauty cannot be universally defined.
However, Eaton also suggests that objective criteria can be established by
identifying patterns in what different people across cultures and times have
consistently found beautiful. Certain forms, proportions, and harmonies have been
repeatedly identified as beautiful, suggesting that there might be underlying
principles that transcend individual preferences. For example, the Golden Ratio has
been admired in art and architecture across various cultures for centuries. This
consistency suggests that beauty may have objective qualities rooted in human
psychology and biology.
Furthermore, aesthetics as a discipline can be defined objectively by considering it
as the study of principles that underlie judgments of taste. While individual taste may
vary, the study of how people come to make these judgments can be systematic and
objective. Eaton points to the fact that aesthetics often involves analyzing the
structure, form, and function of art, which can be done without relying on personal
preferences. For instance, the balance, contrast, and unity in a painting can be
analyzed objectively, regardless of whether an individual viewer likes the painting.
Eaton's argument allows us to assert that while personal experiences of beauty are
subjective, the principles that govern these experiences can be studied and defined
objectively. Beauty, then, can be understood as a combination of subjective
experience and objective criteria, with aesthetics serving as the framework that
allows us to analyze and understand these criteria.
In conclusion, it is possible to define "beauty" and "aesthetics" objectively by
recognizing that while individual perceptions of beauty vary, there are consistent
patterns and principles that can be identified and studied. These principles form the
basis of the discipline of aesthetics, which can be approached systematically and
objectively, as Eaton suggests.
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller GeniusGears. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for $2.81. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.
