Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/modern-postmodern-1
If you’re fascinated by the cultural, philosophical, and artistic transformations from the Enlightenment to the dawn of postmodernism, Coursera’s course ‘The Modern and the Postmodern (Part 1)’ is an excellent choice to deepen your understanding. This course meticulously traces how ideas of ‘the modern’ emerged at the end of the 18th century in European philosophy and literature, setting the stage for contemporary cultural discourse.
The course begins by examining key philosophical figures such as Immanuel Kant and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, exploring how their ideas reflect the spirit of modernity and progress. It then transitions into critical discussions on the Enlightenment’s influence on politics and inequality, with insights into Karl Marx’s revolutionary ideas.
Moving forward, the curriculum highlights significant artistic and literary developments, including Gustave Flaubert’s ‘Madame Bovary’ as a critique of convention and the failures of revolution, and Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking work in the context of Enlightenment traditions. The course also delves into the aesthetic shifts brought about by Baudelaire and Nietzsche, emphasizing the embrace of intensity over seeking absolute truths.
A unique aspect of this course is its quick survey of modern art, illustrating how painting evolved to focus more on surface and style, moving away from realistic representation.
Overall, I highly recommend this course for anyone interested in the historical development of modern thought, culture, and art. Its comprehensive approach not only illuminates the origins of modern and postmodern ideas but also encourages us to question whether we are still within the modern era or have moved beyond it. Whether you’re a student of philosophy, history, art, or culture, this course provides valuable insights and a solid foundation for understanding our current cultural landscape.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/modern-postmodern-1