WHAT IS ART? by LEO TOLSTOY. Audiobook, full length

Audiobook from classics collection / best-sellers.
Leo Tolstoy's "What is Art?" is a philosophical treatise written in 1897 that explores the nature and purpose of art. The book is a reflection of Tolstoy's evolving views on art and his dissatisfaction with contemporary art forms. The work is divided into four parts, each addressing different aspects of art.

1. Definition of Art:
Tolstoy begins by questioning the conventional definitions of art prevalent in his time. He rejects the idea that art is defined by beauty or the transmission of emotions from the artist to the audience. Instead, he proposes a definition based on the communication of feelings that are shared by both the artist and the audience. Tolstoy argues that true art should be a sincere expression of the artist's emotions, accessible and comprehensible to the audience.

2. The Infection Theory:
One of Tolstoy's central arguments is the "infection" theory of art. He posits that genuine art infects the audience with the same feelings experienced by the artist during the creation of the work. Tolstoy believes that art serves a moral purpose by transmitting feelings that are conducive to the well-being of humanity. He criticizes art that fails to convey these universal, life-affirming emotions, dismissing it as decadent and harmful.

3. The Criteria for True Art:
Tolstoy establishes three criteria for evaluating art: individuality, clearness, and sincerity. Individuality refers to the unique expression of the artist's feelings; clearness emphasizes the accessibility of these feelings to the audience; and sincerity underscores the authenticity and truthfulness of the emotional expression. Art that meets these criteria is, according to Tolstoy, both morally and aesthetically valuable.

4. Critique of Contemporary Art:
Tolstoy harshly criticizes the art of his time, particularly what he sees as the decadence and pretentiousness of modern European art. He accuses artists of catering to elite tastes and producing works that lack genuine emotion or moral value. Tolstoy advocates for a return to a more accessible, popular, and morally uplifting art that connects with the common people.

Conclusion:
"What is Art?" is a thought-provoking exploration of the purpose and essence of art, drawing on Tolstoy's evolving philosophical and religious beliefs. It reflects his conviction that art should be a powerful force for good, fostering a sense of shared humanity and moral upliftment. Tolstoy's ideas have sparked debates and discussions in the fields of aesthetics and philosophy, leaving a lasting impact on how art is perceived and evaluated.


Intro 00:00:00
CHAPTER II 00:14:36
CHAPTER III 00:32:53
CHAPTER IV 01:07:34
CHAPTER V 01:21:54
CHAPTER VI 01:35:07
CHAPTER VII 01:49:27
CHAPTER VIII 01:58:44
CHAPTER IX 02:09:55
CHAPTER X 02:21:03
CHAPTER XI 03:06:14
CHAPTER XII 03:29:23
CHAPTER XIII 03:47:23
CHAPTER XIV 04:16:15
CHAPTER XV 04:34:13
CHAPTER XVI 04:41:38
CHAPTER XVII 05:18:44
CHAPTER XVIII 05:39:32
CHAPTER XIX 05:47:27
CHAPTER XX 06:01:50
More: What Is Art, Leo Tolstoy, Audiobook
Full Length, Classic Literature, Russian Literature
Philosophy of Art, Emotional Communication, Morality and Art
Humanity and Art