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connell98's review against another edition
3.0
I feel like I would have been more open to this text had Arnold clarified his terminology at the beginning. As I approached the end of the text, I felt that I was introduced to the definitions of “Hellenism and Hebraism,” “sweetness and light,” and so forth a little too late in the text. Maybe that is a fault of my edition, and maybe it isn’t.
Some good ideas towards the end about how certain in/actions vary per generation and the needs of that generation.
Probably would have had more time to dissect if it wasn’t for my MA exam and the very last text I read.
Some good ideas towards the end about how certain in/actions vary per generation and the needs of that generation.
Probably would have had more time to dissect if it wasn’t for my MA exam and the very last text I read.
wisteriaearl's review against another edition
challenging
slow-paced
2.0
Arnold has a very dry writing style in comparison to many other Victorian writers. He often repeats himself and uses a lot of jargon. The essays felt like it could have been shorter and although some of his ideas are interesting. They're are presented in a very boring way.
david_rhee's review against another edition
3.0
This essay collection sat on my shelf for a good couple years and might never had seen the light of day if I hadn't been surprised by its being mentioned in Ulysses. I think I only ordered it to round out the rest of my remaining balance on an Amazon giftcard. Although the essays push their points from a specific national view, the main thrust is something always of value and that is the endeavoring spirit of curiousity. Arnold seeks a return to the inventive Hellenic disposition for he senses a progressing mechanization which sacrifices true philosophy in favor of brute efficiency. Of course, the subordination of all one's energy to lesser ends is regrettable, but one wonders is it really all of one or none of it? Demarcations are suspected of being too sharply drawn in this one, but maybe an intended effect upon readers was sought more than a truthful formulation of concepts.
doctortdm's review against another edition
3.0
I believe even for the time in which this book was written the author's prose was dated but what would expect from a man who promotes "being" and loathes "becoming."
Did Mr. Arnold come up with the phrase "do as you are told", if he didn't he was a definite disciple.
Did Mr. Arnold come up with the phrase "do as you are told", if he didn't he was a definite disciple.