Culture and Anarchy

by Matthew Arnold

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Introduction

Culture and Anarchy by Matthew Arnold is a social and political critique first published in 1869. It is a collection of essays on the relationship between culture, industrialization, and individualism. Arnold argues for the importance of culture in achieving a harmonious society, emphasizing the need for education and moral growth.

Matthew Arnold was an Irish-born British poet and cultural critic who heavily influenced Victorian literature and thought. He worked as a school inspector for over three decades, and most of his ideas and opinions about education and society stemmed from his line of duty.

The publication of Culture and Anarchy occurred during a period of significant economic and social change in England, marked by rapid industrialization, the expansion of the middle class, and debates over democracy and social reform. Geographically, the text originates from England, but the issues it addresses are relevant to the entirety of the Western world.

Plot Summary

In the first two chapters of Culture and Anarchy, Matthew Arnold defines culture as society's ongoing pursuit of perfection. He argues that achieving this perfection requires two things: a passion for understanding reality and building a culture based on that knowledge.

He calls this desire to understand reality "scientific passion," while the desire to be moral is known as "social passion." However, because perfection is unattainable, culture is constantly evolving.

Arnold explains that true culture aims to perfect both individuals and humanity as a whole. He criticizes Victorian England for its obsession with material wealth and industrial progress, which he believes has caused a neglect of genuine cultural values.

He depicts Englishmen as overly focused on personal freedom and self-interest rather than striving for "sweetness and light"—a term he uses to describe beauty and intelligence. Arnold further discusses the negative impacts of industrialism on the national mindset and warns against the dangers of anarchy and unrestrained individualism.

In chapters three and four of Culture and Anarchy, Arnold discusses the British class system and the cultural influences of Hebraism and Hellenism. Arnold divides English society into three classes: the "Barbarians" (the aristocracy), the "Philistines" (the middle class), and the "Populace" (the working class and the poor).

He criticizes each class for its shortcomings: the Barbarians are preoccupied with superficial matters, the Philistines resist change to maintain the status quo, and the Populace aspires to become like the Philistines.

He asserts that individuals from any class can possess true cultural values. These values enable people to transcend class divisions, focusing instead on humanity, morality, and intelligence. Class-based egotism and the freedom to act independently without regard for collective well-being lead to societal anarchy.

Arnold compares Hebraism and Hellenism, preferring Hellenistic values that focus on understanding the world and seeking knowledge. While Hebraism teaches "strictness of conscience," Hellenism teaches "spontaneity of consciousness," which Arnold considers true culture.

He also acknowledges the value of Hebraism's conservative and restrictive approach, as its longevity suggests it offers important lessons for cultural development. He proposes a blend of both cultural values as the ideal form of an advanced society.

In the final two chapters, Arnold argues that a balanced state requires moderation. Puritan thought holds that a strong work ethic is the most important thing for society. Arnold believes that focusing only on work is a problem and makes a person incomplete. He believes there is never just one essential thing, which is why a balance between work and play is necessary.

He also criticizes the political reforms of his time, such as the dissolution of the Irish church, the Real Estate Intestacy Bill, the Deceased Sister's Wife Bill, and free trade. He claims that liberal reformers lack impartiality and reason, and their actions could lead to anarchy. By addressing these political issues, he emphasizes that true perfection can only be achieved through culture.

In the conclusion, he argues that advocates of culture should not let self-interest and selfishness cloud their judgment. Instead, they should strive to rise above personal desires and class divisions, focusing on promoting culture and collaborating to improve society. By doing so, they can achieve personal fulfillment while contributing to the greater good.

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