Description
Book Synopsis: Photography: History and Theory introduces students to both the history of photography and critical theory. From its inception in the nineteenth century, photography has instigated a series of theoretical debates. In this new text, Jae Emerling therefore argues that the most insightful way to approach the histories of photography is to address simultaneously the key events of photographic history alongside the theoretical discourse that accompanied them.
While the nineteenth century is discussed, the central focus of the text is on modern and contemporary photographic theory. Particular attention is paid to key thinkers, such as Baudelaire, Barthes and Sontag. In addition, the centrality of photography to contemporary art practice is addressed through the theoretical work of Allan Sekula, John Tagg, Rosalind Krauss, and Vilém Flusser. The text also includes readings of many canonical photographers and exhibitions including: Atget, Brassai, August Sander, Walker Evans, The Family of Man, Diane Arbus, Lee Friedlander, Cindy Sherman, Bernd and Hilla Becher, Sebastaio Salgado, Jeff Wall, and others.
In addition, Emerling provides close readings of key passages from some major theoretical texts. These glosses come between the chapters and serve as a conceptual line that connects them. Glosses include:
- Roland Barthes, “The Rhetoric of the Image” (1964)
- Susan Sontag, Regarding the Pain of Others (2002)
- Michel Foucault on the archive (1969)
- Walter Benjamin, “Little History of Photography” (1931)
- Vilém Flusser, Towards a Philosophy of Photography (1983)
A substantial glossary of critical terms and names, as well as an extensive bibliography, make this the ideal book for courses on the history and theory of photography.
Details
Unlock the captivating world of photography and dive into the rich history and critical theories that shaped this art form. Introducing "Photography: History and Theory" - a comprehensive text that takes you on a fascinating journey through the evolution of photography. From its humble beginnings in the nineteenth century to the present day, this book delves into the pivotal moments in photographic history while exploring the profound theoretical debates that accompanied them.
What sets "Photography: History and Theory" apart is its emphasis on modern and contemporary photographic theory. Immerse yourself in the works of influential thinkers like Baudelaire, Barthes, and Sontag, and gain a deeper understanding of the pivotal role photography plays in contemporary art practice through the lens of Sekula, Tagg, Krauss, and Flusser. This text also offers insightful analysis of canonical photographers and groundbreaking exhibitions, featuring Atget, Arbus, Friedlander, Sherman, Salgado, Wall, and more.
As you explore this captivating world, "Photography: History and Theory" provides you with close readings of important theoretical texts, including Roland Barthes' "The Rhetoric of the Image," Susan Sontag's "Regarding the Pain of Others," Michel Foucault's writings on the archive, Walter Benjamin's "Little History of Photography," and Vilém Flusser's "Towards a Philosophy of Photography." These glosses serve as conceptual bridges between the chapters, helping you connect the dots and deepen your understanding of the subject.
With a substantial glossary of critical terms and names, as well as an extensive bibliography, "Photography: History and Theory" is the perfect companion for courses on the history and theory of photography. Whether you're a student, a photography enthusiast, or a curious mind seeking to explore the intricacies of this art form, this book is your gateway to a world of knowledge and inspiration. Take a step into the fascinating realm of photography and order your copy today!
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