Table-Talk · Question
How does Table-Talk develop the theme of Criticism and Critical Practice?
Answer
Table-Talk by William Hazlitt develops Criticism and Critical Practice across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The text critiques contemporary literary and artistic criticism, contrasting shallow, rule-based analysis with genuine criticism that captures the soul and passion of a work, and laments the rise of sensationalist, dogmatic reviewing.
Hazlitt critiques Sir Joshua Reynolds's theory of art, arguing for the inclusion of individual details over mere general effect.
The chapter is a sustained critical argument about the nature of artistic appreciation, contrasting the amateur's view with the connoisseur's or artist's deeper understanding.
The essay examines how criticism should be grounded in feeling and imagination, not abstract rules, and uses examples from art and physiognomy.
Evidence in the book
- On the Pleasure of Painting
Hazlitt critiques Sir Joshua Reynolds's theory of art, arguing for the inclusion of individual details over mere general effect.
- The Same Subject Continued
The chapter is a sustained critical argument about the nature of artistic appreciation, contrasting the amateur's view with the connoisseur's or artist's deeper understanding.
- On Genius and Common Sense
The essay examines how criticism should be grounded in feeling and imagination, not abstract rules, and uses examples from art and physiognomy.
- The Same Subject Continued
Hazlitt defends the essay form as a legitimate mode of criticism, consisting of 'additions and corrections' to common knowledge, and rejects the demand for systematic regularity.
- Character of Cobbett
The chapter is a sustained critical analysis of Cobbett's character and writing style, comparing him to Paine, Burke, and others, and evaluating his methods and effectiveness.
- On the Ignorance of the Learned
Hazlitt critiques the learned for their reliance on authority and tradition rather than direct observation and reason.
- On Living to One’s-Self
Hazlitt critiques the cruelty and superficiality of contemporary criticism, where every petty caviller becomes a judge and authors are hounded.
- On Certain Inconsistencies in Sir Joshua Reynolds's Discourses
The chapter is a direct critical analysis of Reynolds's Discourses, exposing contradictions and questioning his authority.
