Designed for readers with no or little prior knowledge of the subject, this concise anthology brings together key texts in aesthetics and the philosophy of art.

• Designed for readers with no or little prior knowledge of the subject.
• Presents two contrasting pieces on each of six topics.
• Texts range from Plato's famous critique of art in the 'Republic' through Nietzsche's 'The Birth of Tragedy' to Barthes' 'The Death of the Author' and pieces in recent philosophical aesthetics from a number of traditions.
• Interactive editorial commentary helps readers to engage with the philosophical train of thought.
• Explains the argumentative and historical context in which each piece was written.
• Includes questions for debate and suggestions for further reading.

About the Author
Christopher Janaway is Professor of Philosophy at University of Southampton. His recent publications include Schopenhauer: A Very Short Introduction (2002) and Reading Philosophy: Selected Texts with a Method for Beginners (co-edited with Samuel Guttenplan and Jennifer Hornsby, Blackwell, 2003).

Reviews
"A thoughtful and creative selection of the very best work in aesthetics and philosophy of art brought to life with clear, fresh, and insightful commentaries - there is nothing like it." Dominic McIver Lopes, University of British Columbia

''Through a careful and varied selection of writings, supported by clear and succinct commentary, Janaway's volume succeeds very well in its aim of introducing the philosophy of art and the aesthetic in a way that will allow those new to the subject to grasp its interest and importance.'' Sebastian Gardner, University College London

Book Information
ISBN 9781405118088
Author Christopher Janaway
Format Paperback
Page Count 296
Imprint Wiley-Blackwell
Publisher John Wiley and Sons Ltd
Weight(grams) 540g
Dimensions(mm) 246mm * 173mm * 23mm