Functionalism and Fin de Siècle: Fritz Mauthner's Critique of Language

Katherine Arens delves into the intricate relationship between language and thought through the lens of Fritz Mauthner's theories. By examining Mauthner's critique, she reveals how his perspectives challenge traditional notions of language and communication during the tumultuous fin de siècle period. This exploration not only sheds light on Mauthner's impact on the philosophy of language but also situates his insights within the broader cultural and intellectual shifts of his time.

Through a careful analysis of key literary figures and philosophical movements, Arens articulates the tensions between language, meaning, and reality that emerged in the late 19th century. This work invites readers to reconsider the role of language as a functional tool and a barrier to understanding, encouraging a deeper engagement with the complexities of linguistic theory and its implications for human expression.