Conrad and Impressionism

In this 2001 book, John Peters investigates the impact of Impressionism on Conrad.

John G. Peters (Author)

9780521791731, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 15 March 2001

222 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.6 cm, 0.5 kg

'Conrad and Impressionism, a systematic and thorough study of the relationship between seeing and knowing in Conrad's work, perpetuates this tradition of excellence. … Conrad and Impressionism is remarkable for its carefully composed logical structure and the precision of its arguments … John G. Peters has made a valuable contribution to Conrad studies, one upon which future scholars can build with assurance.' The Conradian

In this 2001 book, John Peters investigates the impact of Impressionism on Conrad and links this to his literary techniques as well as his philosophical and political views. Impressionism, Peters argues, enabled Conrad to encompass both surface and depth not only in visually perceived phenomena but also in his narratives and objects of consciousness, be they physical objects, human subjects, events or ideas. Though traditionally thought of as a sceptical writer, Peters claims that through Impressionism Conrad developed a coherent and mostly traditional view of ethical and political principles, a claim he supports through reference to a broad range of Conrad's texts. Conrad and Impressionism investigates the sources and implications of Conrad's impressionism in order to argue for a consistent link between his literary technique, philosophical presuppositions and socio-political views. The same core ideas concerning the nature of human experience run throughout his works.

Preface
Acknowledgments
List of abbreviations
Introduction: objects of consciousness in Conrad's impressionist world
1. Subject/object: science and the epistemological origins of literary impressionism
2. Objects and events in the 'primitive eye': the epistemology of objectivity
3. Other-like-self and other-unlike-self: the epistemology of subjectivity
4. 'Sudden holes' in time: the epistemology of temporality
5. Radical relativism, epistemological certainty and ethical absolutes: Conrad's impressionist response to solopsism and anarchy
Epilogue
Notes
Selected bibliography
Index.

Subject Areas: Literary studies: general [DSB], Art & design styles: Impressionism & Post-Impressionism [ACVT]