i have been taking a class called "topics in theology and the visual arts," and between that class and "apologetics" i have been thinking a bit about Platonism, and the influence it still seems to have on our thinking at various times in history. i am baffled as to why Plato had the idea that it is a good thing to appreciate the form of a piece of art without feeling any emotions about it. it seems to me that he is taking the greatest part of experiencing art (the emotional, gut-level reaction) and reducing it to a cold, ambivalent experience. take this sculpture called "la pieta" by michelangelo: if all you can do is appreciate the form of this piece without responding emotionally to the subject matter (and its intrinsic beauty) you have really missed the point.... at least in my humble opinion.
1 comments:
Michelangelo was a champ - hands down.
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