Nature and Aesthetics

doi:10.1017/9781108860666.018

17 - Nature and Aesthetics

Methexis, Mimēsis and Poiēsis

from Part III - Engagements

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 21 July 2022

Alexander J. B. Hampton

Edited by

Alexander J. B. Hampton and

Douglas Hedley

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Alexander J. B. Hampton: Affiliation:
University of Toronto
Douglas Hedley: Affiliation:
University of Cambridge

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Summary

This examination begins with the poetical exploration of human alienation from nature. It then examines the resilient capacity of aesthetics, particularly aesthetic realism, to disrupt and critique the anthropocentrism that is the cause of this alienation. Aesthetic realism is elaborated through three central, recurrent and evolving concepts: methexis, mimesis and poesis. Taken together, these articulate and enact a relationship between humans and nature that recognises nature’s own inherent meaning and value apart from those imposed upon it by human minds. These dimensions of aesthetic realism are explored through poetry, painting, music and architecture, each in its own way challenging anthropocentrism. In doing so, aesthetics presents itself as a resource for overcoming the disconnection from nature that is essential to addressing the environmental crisis.

Keywords

aesthetics poetry art realism participation anthropocentrism

Type: Chapter
Information: The Cambridge Companion to Christianity and the Environment , pp. 263 - 285

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108860666.018 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2022

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References

Selected Bibliography

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