John Ruskin

John Ruskin: A Victorian Visionary

John Ruskin (1819-1900) was a towering figure in 19th-century England. He wasn't just one thing, but a multifaceted polymath who left his mark on art, architecture, society, and literature. Here's a glimpse into his remarkable life:

Early Life and Influences:

• Born in London in 1819, Ruskin was an only child.
• His father, a successful wine merchant, instilled in him a love for travel and art collecting.
• His deeply religious mother exposed him to the Bible, fostering a love for language and a strong moral compass.
• Extensive travels through Europe, particularly to the Alps, nurtured his fascination with nature and its beauty.

Champion of Art:

• Ruskin rose to prominence as a champion of the Romantic painter J. M. W. Turner. His influential book, "Modern Painters" (published in parts between 1843 and 1860), defended Turner's work against harsh criticism.
• He championed the Pre-Raphaelites, a group of young artists rebelling against the stale conventions of the art world.
• Ruskin believed art had the power to elevate the human spirit and advocated for a return to careful observation of nature and detail in art.

Social Critic and Reformer:

• Deeply troubled by the harsh realities of the Industrial Revolution, Ruskin became a social critic.
• His book "Unto This Last" (1860) challenged the economic principles of capitalism, arguing for fairer treatment of workers and a focus on quality over profit.
• He established the Guild of St. George, a utopian community dedicated to craftsmanship and social justice.

Later Years and Legacy:

• Ruskin's mental health declined in the later part of his life, and he experienced periods of intense depression.
• Despite his struggles, his influence on art, architecture, and social thought remained profound.
• Ruskin challenged Victorians to see the world differently, urging them to appreciate nature, value quality over quantity, and fight for social justice.