Classicising Crisis

Geopolitical shifts and economic upheavals have long influenced societies and cultures, shaping the narratives and artistic expressions that emerge during times of crisis. This book explores how periods of instability have provoked a classicizing response, invoking classical themes and forms to negotiate contemporary challenges. Drawing on a wide array of examples, it highlights how different eras, from the Early Modern period to the present day, have turned to antiquity for inspiration in redefining their identities amidst turmoil.

Within its pages, the work meticulously examines various artistic and literary responses to crises across centuries. It reveals how the invocation of classical paradigms serves not only as a means of coping but also as a way to critique and challenge the present. Goff and Simpson's insightful analysis reveals the persistent allure of the classical world in shaping modern discourse and cultural production.

Through an interdisciplinary approach that encompasses literature, history, and art, the authors invite readers to consider the interplay between past and present. This exploration offers a deeper understanding of how societies grapple with change by looking back, suggesting that the dialogue between the contemporary and the classical remains a vital part of human expression and resilience in the face of adversity.