The Works of William Hogarth: In a Series of Engravings / With Descriptions, and a Comment on Their Moral Tendency

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

22500

Title

The Works of William Hogarth: In a Series of Engravings / With Descriptions, and a Comment on Their Moral Tendency

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This volume presents the works of William Hogarth through a series of engravings, accompanied by descriptions and commentary on their moral tendencies by the Rev. John Trusler. It explores Hogarth's transition from a silversmith's apprentice to a celebrated artist known for his 'moral comic' style. The text highlights his satirical genius, which captures the follies and vices of his age through vivid caricature and original comic design, offering both amusement and ethical instruction.

Summary up to 500 words

John Trusler's volume offers a comprehensive biographical and critical examination of William Hogarth, the preeminent English artist of the 18th century. Born in 1697 to a schoolmaster father, Hogarth began his career as an apprentice to a silversmith, where he honed his skills in engraving and developed a natural talent for caricature. His genius was first publicly recognized with the publication of 'The Harlot's Progress,' a series that introduced him to high society and established his reputation. This success was followed by other influential moral series, including 'The Rake's Progress,' 'Marriage a-la-Mode,' 'Industry and Idleness,' and 'The Stages of Cruelty.' These works, along with single prints like 'Gin Lane' and 'Beer Street,' served not merely as humorous entertainment but as serious 'lectures of morality,' satirizing specific vices with minute detail and strength of character. Beyond his satirical works, Hogarth made significant theoretical contributions to art through his 'Analysis of Beauty,' which argued that true beauty resides in the union of uniformity found in the curve or waving line. He also attempted serious history painting, notably with 'Sigismonda,' aiming to rival ancient masters like Correggio. His career reached its zenith in 1757 when he was appointed King's Serjeant-Painter. The text further explores his political engagement, particularly his prints regarding the controversy surrounding John Wilkes, such as 'The Times.' Trusler emphasizes that Hogarth's art transcends mere comedy; it is a profound study of human manners and passions. The volume concludes by describing specific prints like 'Columbus Breaking the Egg' and 'The Lecture,' illustrating Hogarth's unique ability to convey complex ideas and sounds visually. Ultimately, Hogarth is celebrated as a writer of comedy with a pencil, whose enduring legacy lies in his creation of a new species of 'moral comic' painting that captures the follies of an age while delivering lessons of virtue.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Classics
• Biography