Author
Benedetto Croce
1866-1952
Benedetto Croce (1866-1952) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Benedetto Croce
Æsthetic as science of expression and general linguistic
"Æsthetic as Science of Expression and General Linguistic" by Benedetto Croce is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. This work explores the concept of aesthetics as a science of expression, emphasizing the relationship between intuition, expression, and art. Croce examines how intuitive knowledge informs artistic creation while critiquing the notions of art as mere imitation of nature or as a vehicle for conveying concepts. The opening of the text establishes the foundational concepts of intuitive knowledge and its independence from intellectual knowledge, arguing that true intuition culminates in expression. Croce asserts that artistic expression is not merely the replication of reality but rather a dynamic process that shapes our perceptions and understanding of the world. He critiques existing theories that reduce art to mere emotion or abstract thought, positing instead that intuition and expression are inherently linked. This foundation sets the stage for a deeper exploration of art's role in human experience and its integration with philosophy throughout the work.
The Philosophy of Giambattista Vico
"The Philosophy of Giambattista Vico" by Benedetto Croce is a scholarly exposition on the philosophical ideas of Giambattista Vico, written in the early 20th century. The book explores Vico's critique of Cartesian thought, emphasizing the importance of history, language, imagination, and the moral sciences. Croce aims to provide a fresh interpretation of Vico's contributions to philosophy, asserting their relevance to modern thought. The opening of the work establishes the framework for an in-depth analysis of Vico's philosophy, particularly his criticism of Descartes' reliance on mathematical reasoning as the highest form of knowledge. Instead, Vico advocates for a recognition of knowledge rooted in human experience and history ("verum ipsum factum"). He introduces the concept that true understanding of human affairs arises from the acknowledgment that humans create the world they seek to understand, and thus possess a unique perspective that divine knowledge encompasses. This sets the stage for a broader discussion on how knowledge in the moral sciences, history, and even the arts can achieve greatness through their imaginative and constructive elements, opposing the more rigid frameworks of the Cartesian approach.
Theory & History of Historiography
"Theory & History of Historiography" by Benedetto Croce is an analytical work on the philosophy and methodology of historiography written in the early 20th century. This treatise aims to deepen the understanding of historical narratives by exploring concepts such as the distinction between history and chronicle, the role of documents, and the meaning of historical truth. With a focus on the intricacies of historiographical thought, Croce seeks to redefine how history is comprehended and recorded, urging readers to recognize the contemporary relevance of all history. At the start of the work, the author introduces critical ideas about the nature of history, contending that every historical narrative is inherently contemporary, as it is shaped by present understanding and contexts. He emphasizes that history should not merely recount events but should inspire critical thought and self-reflection within the reader, thereby linking past experiences with current realities. Croce addresses the inadequacies of traditional historical methods that separate historical narratives from living contexts and documents, arguing that true historical understanding emerges only when these elements intersect within the realm of human consciousness. Ultimately, he sets the stage for a comprehensive examination of different historiographical traditions and their implications for the conception of history itself.
Aesthetic as Science of Expression and General Linguistic
"Aesthetic as Science of Expression and General Linguistic" by Benedetto Croce is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the nature of aesthetics, the process of expression, and their relationship with intuition and art. Croce critiques the separation of artistic intuition from other forms of knowledge, arguing for a unified theory that encompasses both artistic creation and intellectual thought. The opening of the text introduces Benedetto Croce’s views on intuitive knowledge as distinguished from logical knowledge. He asserts that human knowledge consists of two forms—intuitive (aesthetic) and logical (intellectual)—and emphasizes the independence and significance of intuitive knowledge in understanding the nature of art. The text highlights that true intuition is inherently tied to expression, suggesting that to possess an intuition is to have already expressed it in some form. Croce aims to establish a framework that intertwines aesthetics with the broader philosophical inquiry, believing that art is a profound expression of human experience that transcends mere imitation of nature.
Ariosto, Shakespeare and Corneille
"Ariosto, Shakespeare and Corneille" by Benedetto Croce is a collection of literary criticism written in the early 20th century. The text offers an analysis of the works of three prominent literary figures: Ludovico Ariosto, William Shakespeare, and Pierre Corneille. The focus lies primarily on the aesthetic values and the underlying principles that govern their respective poetic expressions, with an emphasis on Croce’s own philosophical theories regarding art and aesthetics. At the start of the work, the translator’s preface outlines the intent behind Croce’s criticism, asserting the significance of the aesthetic experience in understanding poetry beyond mere admiration. The text begins to explore the poetry of Ludovico Ariosto, highlighting the complexities surrounding interpretations of his famous poem, "Orlando Furioso." The author reflects on the harmony, sentiment, and human experiences expressed within Ariosto's works, setting the stage for a broader inquiry into the relationships between art, emotion, and philosophical thought. The analysis emphasizes the need for a profound understanding of art that transcends superficial gratifications, asserting that true poetic value combines intuitive experience and intellectual engagement.
The Philosophy of the Practical: Economic and Ethic
"The Philosophy of the Practical: Economic and Ethic" by Benedetto Croce is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. This book explores the interrelationship and distinctions between practical activities and theoretical understanding, examining how both economic and ethical dimensions shape human actions. Croce delves into the nature of will and knowledge, arguing that true understanding transcends mere psychological classification and involves a deeper philosophical inquiry. At the start of the work, Croce introduces the concept of practical activity as a unique form of spiritual expression, distinct from both theoretical thought and emotional feeling. He critiques the psychological methods that attempt to categorize human activities exclusively into practical or theoretical realms, asserting that all forms intertwine within the unified spirit of humanity. The beginning sets up a foundation for a more profound exploration of how economic and ethical actions are informed by theoretical frameworks while emphasizing the autonomy of practical thought as a critical component of human existence.
Historical materialism and the economics of Karl Marx
"Historical Materialism and the Economics of Karl Marx" by Benedetto Croce is a philosophical critique written in the late 19th century. The work analyzes and interprets the concepts of historical materialism, often associated with Marx's ideas, questioning their philosophical validity and implications for understanding history and economics. Croce aims to distinguish between the economic influences on history and the philosophical interpretations that often accompany them. The opening of the book presents Croce's intent to clarify the nature of historical materialism through philosophical criticism, particularly referencing Antonio Labriola's contributions to the subject. Croce emphasizes that historical materialism should not be misconstrued as a definitive philosophy of history but rather as a collection of data regarding the economic factors that shape historical events. He critiques various interpretations that suggest historical materialism seeks to reduce all history to economic conditions alone, arguing instead for a more nuanced understanding that includes the roles of various societal factors and individual actions in the historical process. This foundational perspective sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the connections between economics and history in the subsequent chapters.
Logic as the Science of the Pure Concept
"Logic as the Science of the Pure Concept" by Benedetto Croce is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. This work is part of a series titled "Philosophy of the Spirit," and aims to present an advanced understanding of logic and its inherent principles. The primary focus of the book is an in-depth examination of the nature of concepts, distinguishing between pure concepts and various forms of pseudoconcepts. At the start of the text, the author introduces fundamental presuppositions related to logical activity, highlighting key distinctions between thought, representations, intuitions, and language. Croce emphasizes that true logical knowledge transcends mere representation, setting the stage for the exploration of the pure concept as a necessary cognitive form. He critiques formal logic and presents a new framework that rejects outdated and simplistic views, thus proposing a foundation for understanding thought and knowledge as intertwined aspects of the human spirit.