Abstract

The philosophical reader cannot help but notice that some of the major assertions of Immanuel Kant and Martin Heidegger are thematically intertwined. Perhaps even more clearly, the viewer who approaches the work of Edvard Munch with a philosophical frame of mind will discover how the thoughts of Kant and Heidegger often illuminate key aspects of his paintings. Authentic Dasein and the Anxious Uncanny strives to analyze the main works of Edvard Munch, the father of Expressionism. This thesis uses Heidegger's concepts of anxiety and being-towards-death, as well as Kant's notion of the Sublime as laced with anxiety, to re-examine nineteen of the artist's masterpieces. The first chapter explores the relationship between Kant and Munch, while the second focuses on artist's works through the philosophy of Heidegger. The third and concluding chapter brings together Kant and Heidegger through a series of paintings to demonstrate how Munch's achievement can be interpreted philosophically.

Department

English & Comparative Literature Department

Degree Name

MA in English & Comparative Literature

Graduation Date

6-1-2012

Submission Date

May 2012

First Advisor

Melaney, William

Second Advisor

Shoukri, Doris

Extent

NA

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Library of Congress Subject Heading 1

Munch, Edvard, 1863-1944 -- Exhibitions.

Library of Congress Subject Heading 2

Painting, European.

Rights

The author retains all rights with regard to copyright. The author certifies that written permission from the owner(s) of third-party copyrighted matter included in the thesis, dissertation, paper, or record of study has been obtained. The author further certifies that IRB approval has been obtained for this thesis, or that IRB approval is not necessary for this thesis. Insofar as this thesis, dissertation, paper, or record of study is an educational record as defined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 USC 1232g), the author has granted consent to disclosure of it to anyone who requests a copy.

Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval

Not necessary for this item

Comments

To Professor William Melaney, my advisor, guiding light, source of inspiration and the person who always allowed me to express myself. You allowed me to use my potential to the utmost level, always encouraged me, supported me, gave me courage and strength and allowed me to be the best that I could be. I will be forever grateful for your kindness, patience and support. To Professor Ferial Ghazoul; the first literature course I took was with you, and I have been in love with the world of literature ever since; you are the reason I decided to pursue an MA in English and Comparative Literature

Download

Share

COinS