The Transfiguration of the Commonplace: A Philosophy of Art

by Arthur C. Danto

Book Overview

Arthur C. Danto argues that recent developments in the art world, in particular the production of works of art that cannot be told from ordinary things, make urgent the need for a new theory of art and make plain the factors such a theory can and cannot involve. In the course of constructing such a theory, he seeks to demonstrate the relationship between philosophy and art, as well as the connections that hold between art and social institutions...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0674903463
• ISBN13: 9780674903463
• Release Date: March 1983
• Publisher: Harvard University Press
• Length: 224 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.5" x 8.2"

Customer Reviews

Knowledge In Both Philosophy And Art History

"One of the most philosophically interesting books to date in the philosophy of art. Concerned with defining 'work of art' ... Danto demonstrates an enviable breadth of KNOWLEDGE IN BOTH PHILOSOPHY AND ART HISTORY. The result is a volume that is certain to be at the center of discussion in this area in the coming years." ---Journal of Aesthetics and Art Criticism [from the book of the back cover]

The best attempt yet at a definitional theory of art.

One of the best philosophical works of the latter 20th century. Ranks alongside Goodman's 'Fact, Fiction and Forecast'. Of interest not merely to philosophers of aesthetics but also to anyone interested in problems of representation and ontology. A must for any serious student of the arts.

Study of Aesthetics

For any scholar of aesthetics or modern art theory this book isa must. It only falls short in establishing a general theory of art that is applicable to all art forms (such as architecture and music), which Danto claims to be doing (but who has not?). Still, his insight remains crucial to understanding art forms and their meaning in the 20th century.