# Critique of Modernity and Progress in The Works of Max Beerbohm

> Theme guide for The Works of Max Beerbohm by Max Beerbohm.

The author laments the loss of beauty, tradition, and individuality in modern life, criticizing industrialization, the blending of social classes, and the decline of vibrant, decadent society into a weak, uniform, and 'feebleness' age.

## Where it surfaces

- [Dandies and Dandies](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_works_of_max_beerbohm_se/chapters/dandies-and-dandies): The chapter critiques swift rebellions in fashion, advocating for gradual evolution and conformity to the 'last wisdom' of one's age.
- [1880](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_works_of_max_beerbohm_se/chapters/1880): The author laments the loss of genuine gossip due to the Press and critiques the superficiality of contemporary historical records.
- [The Pervasion of Rouge](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_works_of_max_beerbohm_se/chapters/the-pervasion-of-rouge): He critiques the modern obsession with naturalness and the 'horrific pioneers' of women's emancipation, advocating instead for a return to artifice and refinement.
- [Poor Romeo!](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_works_of_max_beerbohm_se/chapters/poor-romeo): The chapter laments the decline of theatrical art due to amateurism and sensationalism, blaming Coates for setting a precedent that degraded the stage.
- [Diminuendo](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_works_of_max_beerbohm_se/chapters/diminuendo): The chapter laments the loss of beauty and tradition at Oxford due to industrialization and modern transportation.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_works_of_max_beerbohm_se/themes/critique_of_modernity_and_progress
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_works_of_max_beerbohm_se/themes