David Weir Knihy

The influence of the Oriental Renaissance, particularly the British discovery of Hindu literature, profoundly shaped William Blake's poetry. David Weir explores how Blake's mythic system is rooted in the rich historical context of the eighteenth century, which includes republican politics and dissenting theology. This interplay illuminates the complexities of Blake's work and its intellectual vigor. Weir illustrates how Blake's engagement with Hindu mythology led to a significant evolution in his poetic career, fostering a system that challenged the established authorities of Church and King.

Ernst Lubitsch's Trouble in Paradise (1932) was released at a critical moment in cinema history, just after the advent of synchronized sound technology and just before the full implementation of the production code. By the time of its release, Lubitsch had already directed more than 50 films, but it was unlike anything he had done before. Aside from being his first non-musical talking picture, the film introduced a level of sophistication and visual subtlety that established the benchmark for classic Hollywood cinema for years to come.In his study of the film, David Weir explores its significance within Lubitsch's career, but also its larger cultural significance within the history of cinema, and the social context of its release during the Great Depression. Paying careful attention to the film itself, Weir discusses its source material, its mise-en-scène and art deco production design, and its inventive use of post-synchronized sound. Drawing on original archival research, Weir traces Trouble in Paradise 's reception history, including its critical reception, and the effect of the Motion Picture Production Code, which led to the film being denied approval for re-release in 1935.

Exploring the contradictions within the American decadent movement during the 1890s and 1920s, this work examines how artists and writers challenged societal norms while grappling with themes of excess, moral decay, and aestheticism. It delves into the cultural context of the era, highlighting the influence of European decadence and the unique responses of American creators. Through detailed analysis, the book reveals how these paradoxes shaped the artistic landscape and reflected broader societal tensions of the time.

The analysis delves into James Joyce's Ulysses by exploring its connections to the works of Homer, Shakespeare, and Dante. By examining the Homeric narrative style, Dantesque structure, and Shakespearean plot elements, the author, Weir, offers a fresh perspective that highlights the profound influence of these literary giants on Joyce's groundbreaking novel. This approach uncovers new interpretations and deepens the understanding of Joyce's intricate storytelling.

Focusing on decadence as a significant literary movement, this study argues for its role as a bridge between romanticism and modernism, highlighting its aesthetic principles. It explores how decadence influenced various fin-de-siècle literary schools like naturalism and symbolism through analyses of novels from French, English, Italian, and American authors. The author, David Weir, asserts that the decadent sensibility continues to resonate in contemporary culture, particularly through multiculturalism and postmodernism, revealing its lasting impact on literature and theory.

incisive survey Matthew Reisz, Times Higher Education

The book delves into the deep-rooted American fascination with the Far East, tracing its origins back to the eighteenth century. Unlike their British and European contemporaries, early Americans viewed the East as a source of enlightenment, with figures like Franklin and Jefferson finding philosophical kinship in Confucius. As America transitioned to an industrial society, Transcendentalists sought mystical insights from Hinduism. This trend evolved through the twentieth century, influencing poets and continuing into modern times, where the East serves as a complex fantasy for self-discovery and authenticity.

Focusing on the catastrophic Bhopal gas tragedy of 1984, this book provides a detailed account of one of the worst industrial disasters in history. It explores the events leading up to the incident, the immediate aftermath, and the long-term impact on the affected community. Through a blend of personal narratives and analytical insights, it highlights the human and environmental consequences of negligence in industrial practices, making it a poignant reflection on safety and accountability.