"The Pre-Raphaelites and Their Circle" by Cecil Y. Lang is a captivating exploration of the renowned Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and the interconnected artists and individuals associated with them. Lang provides an in-depth analysis of the history, philosophy, and artistic accomplishments of this influential group, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of their work and impact on the art world.
Lang's book presents a detailed account of the lives and artistic practices of the Pre-Raphaelites, tracing their journey from their establishment in the mid-19th century to their enduring legacy. The author delves into the personal lives of key figures such as Dante Gabriel Rossetti, John Everett Millais, and William Holman Hunt, offering insights into their relationships, inspirations, and hardships. Lang's meticulous research is evident, and his writing style makes the information accessible and engaging.
One of the notable strengths of this book is Lang's ability to contextualize the artwork of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood within the broader cultural and societal landscape of Victorian England. He examines the political, religious, and social contexts in which these artists operated, revealing how their work challenged and reflected prevailing attitudes of the time. Lang explores various themes and motifs that influenced the Pre-Raphaelites' creative output, from their fascination with literature to their exploration of nature and spirituality.
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"The Pre-Raphaelites and Their Circle" also highlights the impact of the Brotherhood beyond the realm of painting. Lang devotes significant attention to their endeavors in literature, highlighting collaborations with renowned writers like William Morris and Christina Rossetti. Furthermore, he explores their influence on decorative arts, book design, and even fashion, demonstrating how the Pre-Raphaelite aesthetic permeated various artistic expressions.
Overall, Cecil Y. Lang's book provides a comprehensive and enlightening examination of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and the wider circle of artists associated with them. It is an indispensable read for anyone interested in the Victorian art scene and those curious about the social and cultural factors that shaped the Pre-Raphaelites' unique artistic vision.
What are readers saying?
Cecil Y. Lang's book, "The Pre-Raphaelites and Their Circle," published in 1975, offers an extensive exploration of the Pre-Raphaelite movement and its prominent figures, such as Dante Gabriel Rossetti, John Everett Millais, and William Holman Hunt. Readers have expressed diverse opinions about the book, resulting in a mixed reception.
Some readers have praised the book's thorough research and Lang's profound understanding of the subject matter. They commend Lang for providing a comprehensive overview of the movement, its key members, and their artistic contributions. Lang's writing style is widely admired, as he effectively conveys the passion, creativity, and complexities of the Pre-Raphaelite artists. Consequently, this book is highly regarded as an invaluable resource for those interested in studying the movement.
However, some readers find Lang's writing to be excessively academic and dense, lacking excitement and making it challenging to fully engage with the material. Furthermore, a few reviewers mention that the book may be somewhat outdated since it was published over 45 years ago. They suggest that newer research and perspectives on the Pre-Raphaelites may have emerged since then, potentially providing more comprehensive insights into the movement.
One recurring criticism highlights Lang's book's focus on the male artists of the Pre-Raphaelite circle, which overshadows the contributions and experiences of the women involved. Some readers argue that Lang's examination of the movement is unbalanced and fails to give adequate attention to the important female artists, writers, and models affiliated with the Pre-Raphaelites.
Despite these critiques, many still consider "The Pre-Raphaelites and Their Circle" to be a valuable resource and an insightful introduction to the Pre-Raphaelite movement. Lang's expertise and extensive research shine through the pages, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the art, philosophy, and social context of the Pre-Raphaelites.
PreRaphaelites ArtisticCircle VictorianArt