The Forbidden Image: An Intellectual History of Iconoclasm

Experience the captivating journey of religious imagery with The Forbidden Image: An Intellectual History of Iconoclasm. Dive into the intense debates and introspection of philosophers and theologians spanning over two and a half millennia in the West. Discover the intriguing dual strains of "iconophilia" and iconoclasm as Alain Besançon delves into the privileging and prohibition of religious images.

Unlock the secrets of the image's significance in Greek, Judaic, Islamic, and Christian thought as Besançon meticulously examines their historical contexts. Travel through time as he explores the moral authority of images in European Christianity during the medieval and early modern periods. Prepare to be astonished as The Forbidden Image sheds light on the religiously inspired iconoclasm present in the works of Mondrian, Kandinsky, and Malevich.

This masterful piece is not limited to the past – it continues to resonate in the modern era. Dive into the ongoing debates surrounding iconophilia and iconoclasm, and gain a deeper understanding of their implications in contemporary society. Leszek Kolakowski, writing for the Times Literary Supplement, describes The Forbidden Image as an "immensely rich and powerful masterpiece."

Embark on a journey through time and explore the complex relationship between religious imagery and human consciousness. Uncover the profound insights and interpretations that await you in The Forbidden Image: An Intellectual History of Iconoclasm. Don't miss out – order your copy today and immerse yourself in this remarkable work of intellectual exploration!