On the Old Road, Vol. 2 (of 2) / A Collection of Miscellaneous Essays and Articles on Art and Literature

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

21263

Title

On the Old Road, Vol. 2 (of 2) / A Collection of Miscellaneous Essays and Articles on Art and Literature

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A collection of John Ruskin's miscellaneous essays and parliamentary evidence on art, literature, and social economy. The text advocates for the unity of sculpture and painting in national galleries, critiques industrial pollution, and argues for a Christian ethic of service and anti-usury in modern society.

Summary up to 500 words

John Ruskin's *On the Old Road, Vol. 2* compiles his diverse writings on art, nature, and social justice, offering profound insights into the functions of national institutions and the moral responsibilities of the individual. In his parliamentary evidence regarding national galleries, Ruskin argues that sculpture and painting must be united under the same roof to properly educate public taste. He insists that sculpture provides an essential discipline for viewing painting, allowing the eye to discern the grace of composition more clearly. Furthermore, he strongly advocates for protecting artworks with glass against London's pervasive smoke and pollution, noting that the damage caused by soot is permanent and cannot be remedied by cleaning. The volume also features Ruskin's famous rebuttal to Bishop Mandell Creighton regarding the sin of usury. Defining usury as any profit taken on a loan, Ruskin defends legitimate commerce as compatible with Christian duty. He argues that productive industries, such as cotton mills and land drainage, which provide employment and mutual advantage, are not contrary to the will of God, even if they generate interest. He challenges the notion that great cities are solely centers of sin, highlighting the hundreds of individuals actively engaged in Christian philanthropy within them. Ruskin further explores the degradation of the natural world by industrial mills, contrasting the polluted state of rivers like the Teviot with the enduring faith of historical martyrs. He urges readers to look beyond the superficial sins of the age to the noble virtues exercised by those battling social evils. The text concludes with exhortations to young men to cultivate physical and moral strength through manual labor and service to the poor. Rejecting competitive sports and idle leisure, Ruskin calls for a life dedicated to the 'true service of men,' beginning with the simple act of breaking bread for the needy. He emphasizes that true knowledge and virtue are found not in self-centered ambition, but in patient, useful service to one's fellows, ensuring a legacy of endless virtue for future generations.

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Categories

• Essays
• Literature
• Art